Posted by LOOPS on April 26, 2006, at 8:59:43
In reply to Re: Treating anxiety with ... theanine? » LOOPS, posted by LynneDa on April 25, 2006, at 20:11:38
well it depends on the quality with ginseng (IME), and even on the type of ginseng. I found the best type for anxiety is a very strong extract of Siberian Ginseng. The effect is odd to describe - it is calming yet one feels 'better' whilst taking it and 'stronger' if that makes any sense. Most herbs seem to have one effect or one direction (i.e. calming or energizing but usually not both).
The only time I got a 'buzzy' effect was from a gnc extract of red panax ginseng. I wasn't impressed with this one. Ginseng should never make you feel jittery, and there shouldn't be a 'come-down' either - but there was with this one.
The most relaxed I've ever seen people on ginseng was at a party I had - I boiled up some red kirin ginseng roots when people wanted something to give them more energy. They all became very calm and relaxed instead! Apparently the water extract is very calming - I didn't know that at the time.
If you want some good info on ginseng read all the bumpf on dragonherbs.com. Now I know they sell stuff, but you don't have to buy theirs.
I must add that when I am consistent in taking ginseng (whatever type) my sleep improves a lot. Ginseng is supposed to balance energy in the body - I think it does. I it certainly seems more balancing than say St Johns Wort or Ginkgo biloba which seem more one-directional in their effect.
Best places I found -
ancient-way.com (get the cheap bulk siberian ginseng extract)
imperial elixir ginseng(I think the site is ginseng-company.com - but you can get it anywhere - I get mine from betterlife.com)
dragonherbs.com (but very expensive)There is also Reishi to try, which is very calming , but again, unfortunately it is useless unless you get good quality stuff. I found the Plum Flower powder extract in the tubs quite strong.
Loops
poster:LOOPS
thread:622022
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20060313/msgs/637167.html