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1. Astragalus
Commonly known as milk vetch, this herb is used in Chinese Medicine to treat a wide variety of health issues, including heart disease, liver problems, upper respiratory infections, and asthma. It is now commonly used for its immune stimulating action as well as its anti-aging effect. The latter is attributed to the compound cycloastragenol in the herb which activates the enzyme telomerase that protects the DNA of cells during cell division.
The hormone balancing property of Astragalus helps in regulating blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Astragalus has a protective effect on the beta cells of the pancreas that secretes insulin. It counteracts insulin resistance where the receptors of insulin become progressively desensitized to it because of high levels of circulating hormone. Insulin resistance is a leading cause of type 2 diabetes.
2. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha is a popular herb in the Indian system of medicine Ayurveda. Its wide-ranging action on the endocrine system makes it an excellent adaptogen. Ashwagandha has a balancing effect on the adrenal glands and thethyroid. People with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are both benefited by taking Ashwagandha extract.
Ashwagandha can reduce stress, improve blood circulation, and prevent premature aging. It is considered an aphrodisiac, and is used to treat erectile dysfunction in men, but its ability to relieve stress is thought to be behind this effect. A similar effect on women is attributed to increased blood flow to the reproductive organs.
As the species name ‘somnifera’ suggests, Ashwagandha improves sleep. It has a rejuvenating effect on older people, helping them to regain physical vigor and vitality. It also improves memory.
3. Maca root (Lepidium meyenii)
The root of this turnip-like plant belonging to the cabbage family is called Peruvian ginseng after its native place. It is no relative of true ginseng though. The highly nutritious root is used as a vegetable, and is consumed in the Andean cuisine.But what made it popular is its energy boosting effect that is thought to have provided strength and stamina to the Inca warriors of old.
Athletes now use powdered Maca root to increase stamina. The hormone balancing effect of this root provides additional benefits like stress relief.
Maca root has plant hormones that confer special benefits to women such as relieving premenstrual syndrome and menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.
4. American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)
American ginseng is a true ginseng, although it has a milder and more controlled action compared to the Chinese ginseng. It supports the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, helping maintain correct hormonal balance. However, it does not overstimulate the endocrine system.
American ginseng works by strengthening the immune system and relieving stress. It improves digestion, absorption, and assimilation of nutrients from the diet, which goes a long way in building up strength and stamina and improving general health. It has special benefits for male reproductive health too, since it improves sexual drive and performance.
5. Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens)
The berry of Saw Palmetto is used in herbal medicine to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. Taking this herb may help increase sperm count and reduce chronic fatigue. It relieves stress and improves immune function too.
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