Ancient Chinese Medicinal Plants

Traditional Chinese medicine, or TCM, uses herbs in combination with acupuncture, massage, lifestyle changes, nutrition, exercise and other treatment options to holistically treat health conditions. The Chinese and Japanese have used many herbs for thousands of years. TCM seeks to bring harmony to the body life force, known as qi or chi, through balancing the opposing elements of the yin and yang.

Cordyceps Sinensis

• Cordyceps sinensis is a fungus that grows on several insects, including the larva of the swift moth. According to TCM, it nourishes the lungs and is beneficial to the kidneys. Chinese healers have used it to treat consumption and coughing accompanied by bloody mucus. According to The Rocky Mountain Herbal Institute, it has a similar action to the pharmaceutical Polygalae. In vitro studies have found it effective against the Streptococcus pneumoniae and some tuberculosis strains.

Ephedra

• Ephedra, also known as Ma-huang, is an herb used to cause sweating. Healers recommend it to relieve coughs and asthma, to promote urination and to relieve swelling. Ephedra may cause cardiac arrhythmias, aggravate high blood pressure and induce tremors.

  Ephedra produces ephedrine, a powerful bronchodilator used to treat asthma with bronchospasms. It has antibiotic properties that are effective against the flu virus, according to the Rocky Mountain Herbal Institute. Ephedrine-containing weight-loss products caused significant harm in some people and led to a national ban in 2004.

Asparagus Root

• Asparagus root, or tian men dong, has antibiotic properties against Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis and hemolytic Streptococcus, according to the Rocky Mountain Herbal Institute. It also has shown anticancer properties against some forms of cancer. In TMC, healers recommend it to nourish the Yin, moisten dryness, treat wasting and thirsting syndromes.

  Asparagus is high in phosphorus and is not recommended for individuals with kidney disease or those with diarrhea.

Ginkgo Biloba

• According to the Mayo Clinic, ginkgo biloba rates as one of the top-selling herbs in the United States. The report states that studies have demonstrated ginkgo's efficacy in treating dementia and Alzheimer's disease, although not all studies agree. Some research also indicated that ginkgo may improve memory and reduce premenstrual syndrome symptoms and altitude sickness.

  Allergic reactions are possible. Individuals with bleeding disorders and those taking anticoagulants are advised to avoid ginkgo. Individuals who consume gingko seeds may risk seizures, fainting and death. Individuals with diabetes or hypoglycemia could experience changes in blood sugar levels due to ginkgo.

Red Yeast Rice

• Red yeast rice has been used in Asian countries since the 9th century. Yeast produces several cholesterol-inhibiting substances when grown on rice. Merck uses one of the substances, monacolin K, to produce the pharmaceutical Mevacor. TCM applications for red yeast rice include indigestion and diarrhea treatment, support for spleen and stomach health and assistance with blood circulation.

  One report of severe allergic reaction has been reported. Red yeast rice may increase bleeding risk. Common side effects include gastric upset, muscle pain, dizziness and kidney damage. Individuals with liver disease are discouraged from using red yeast rice, as are pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.