High Energy
Ginseng, Kola Nut, Green Tea & Ginkgo.
The High Energy formula supports the
bodies organ systems while providing a natural source of energy boosting
ingredients.
Below is a list and description of the herbs in the
High Energy formula
Both
American and Asian ginsengs belong to the species Panax and are
similar in their chemical composition. Siberian ginseng or Eleuthero (
Eleutherococcus senticosus ), although part of the same plant family
called Araliaceae , is an entirely different plant and does not
contain ginsenosides, the active ingredients found in both Asian ( Panax
ginseng ) and American ginseng ( Panax quinquefolius ).
There are similarities among American, Asian, and Siberian ginsengs. Each of these three herbs is considered an adaptogen, a substance that strengthens the body, helping it return to normal when it has been subjected to prolonged stress. Therefore, they are considered to be valuable supports for those recovering from illness or surgery, especially the elderly.
The root of American ginseng is light tan and gnarled, sometimes resembles the human body. Panax means all illness, and ginseng has been used across the ages in many different cultures as a "cure-all."
Many studies on ginseng have been performed using Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng). There have been positive reports of using Asian ginseng to treat cancer, heart disease, respiratory problems, fatigue, as well as to boost energy and mental performance and to improve quality of life. However, both American and Asian ginsengs contain ginsenosides, and research does exist on this component. Laboratory studies in animals have reported that American ginseng was effective in boosting the immune system, as an antioxidant and protection against heart attacks.
Kola Nut
Kola
nuts are used mainly for their stimulant and euphoriant qualities. They have
effects similar to other xanthine containing herbs like cocoa, tea, coffee,
guarana and yerba maté. However, the effects are distinctively different,
producing a stronger state of euphoria and well being. They have stimulant
effects on the central nervous system and heart. Animal experiments indicate
that kola nuts have analeptic and lipolytic (fat-burning) properties, and
stimulate the secretion of gastric juices. Human studies show kola nuts have
positive chronotropic and weak diuretic effects. In humans it enhances
alertness and physical energy, elevates mood, increases tactile sensitivity,
suppresses the appetite and is used in Africa as an aphrodisiac.
According
to Chinese folklore, green tea was discovered, only by accident, nearly four
thousand years ago. Today Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) uses green tea
to treat aches, pains, headaches, minor gastrointestinal disorders, and
depression. Green tea has also been used in detoxification, as an immune
enhancer, as an energizer, and to prolong life.Green Tea for Health and Longevity
Most tea products are derived from the same plant. The difference between tea products comes from how each specific tea is prepared. Unlike black and oolong tea, green tea is not fermented, so the active constituents remain in the herb. Green tea contains a variety of chemical compounds, minerals, vitamins, volatile oils and essential nutrients, but the primary compounds that is believed to provide green tea with its health and medicinal effects are polyphenols, particulary epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).
Health Benefits of Green Tea
Among its arsenal of medicinal effects, preliminary studies suggest that green tea can lower cholesterol levels and reduce amounts of harmful LDL cholesterol. These same studies suggest that green tea may also increase cardiovascular health by making blood platelets less sticky.
Green tea has also been shown to be a strong blood antioxidant and detoxifier that can reduce oxidative damage to LDL that can lead to the development of atherosclerosis.
Still other studies have provided preliminary evidence that green tea may inhibit cancer. In a controlled study, the polyphenols in green tea effectively inhibited the spread of melanoma cells in test tube animals. The polyphenols in green tea may also reduce risk in other cancers in humans as well.
Ginkgo
Many
scientists believe that ginkgo biloba is one of oldest living species of
tree. These amazing trees can live up to 1,000 years. Ginkgo grows most
predominantly in the southern and eastern United States, southern France,
China, and Korea. The leaves of the tree are used for their medicinal
effects.
Although the Ginkgo tree has been around for many millions of years, it has
only been during the last few decades that its true value has been
recognized. Among it medicinal uses ginkgo biloba shows most promise as a
circulatory aid, helping to increase blood flow to the brain which may be
useful for memory loss, vertigo, tinnitus, disorientation, headaches, and
depression, especially in the elderly and the elderly not responding to
antidepressant drugs. Increasing amounts of evidence show that gingko may in
deed help to relieve cerebral insufficiency, which is defined as a decrease
in blood supply to the brain.
Many individuals suffering from other circulation related conditions such as
leg cramps have also reported to have experienced favorable results from
using ginkgo biloba. Ginkgo offers antioxidant effects as well, which may
protect both the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system from
the negative effects of aging, specifically age-related mental
deterioration. Some study results offer additional evidence that the
antioxidants in ginkgo may also help to inhibit high blood pressure.
However, no studies have provided conclusive evidence supporting many of the
claimed benefits of ginkgo biloba.
More recent studies have provided promising evidence that ginko may provide
beneficial effects in connection with the following conditions:
- Age-related cognitive decline (ARCD)
- Alzheimer's disease (early-stage)
- Glaucoma (normal tension glaucoma)
- Intermittent claudication
Researchers attribute the medical effects of Ginkgo biloba extract
primarily to two categories of active constituents: flavone glycosides and
terpene lactones. Ginkgo flavone glycosides are primarily responsible for
ginkgos antioxidant effects while the terpene lactones, also known as
ginkgolides and bilobalide, are believed to be responsible for ginko's
ability to increase blood circulation to the brain and other parts of the
body.
Ginkgo's antioxidant effects may also inhibit platelet stickyness which can
decrease the risk of circulatory diseases, such as atherosclerosis.
Ginkgo may also enhance cognitive performance in healthy older adults and in
people suffering from age-related cognitive decline.