HERBS Nature's Pharmacy.

Herbs have more than one primary ingredient in their natural state. They contain minute but important quantities of amino acids, enzymes and trace minerals that can make them more effective than their synthetic counterparts. Too much herbs can be harmful, as with any drugs. Measured use of herbs are critical and some herbs should never be combined. It is important to note that Asians of small physical stature cay be more drug-sensitive and susceptible to side-effects and shouldn't necessarily use amounts prescribed for average heftier American physique. Considering the yin and yang condition of your body helps you maximize the herbal benefits. As a general rule, women are of yin type. This means we are more susceptible to a yin imbalance. This requires us to consume more yang foods to maintain equilibrium. For example, excessive yin foods like raw vegetables, fruits and cold juices cause a yin imbalance. The resultant symptoms include feeling cold, recurring digestive problems including frequent bouts of diarrhea, lower back pains, PMS, heavy cramps and flow during the menstural cycle, lack of energy, depression, loss of appetite, craving for meat and salt, and infertility. If your body is of yang type, excessive eating of yang foods like red meat, fried foods, alcohol, junk foods, and spicy foods can create an imbalance. The resultant symptoms may include skin problems like pimples and acne, inflammation, gastric problems, and constipation, ulcers and heart burns, headache, feeling warmer, sweating, frequent feelings of irritation, anxiety, anger, aggression, frequent insomnia, lack of patience and often craving for cold and/or sweet foods and drinks. Asian herbs should never be taken daily for extended periods. Dried herbs and pure extracts are too powerful to be taken longer than 2-3 weeks at a time. Prolonged use will put your body under stress. And no yang herb tonic should be taken before going to bed because they are powerful stimulants.