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The Ultimate Source of Chinese Tonic Herbs

Dragon Herbs 2003

2 Disease in a small world,

Protect Yourself

Ron Teeguarden of

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Autumn 2003

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By Ron Teeguarden

f it hasnt been clear to everyone before, it has become completely obvious that when it comes to infectious disease, the world is now a small place. With massive international commerce and minimal barriers on travel from one country to another, no localized infectious disease is guarantied to be 100% containable. The recent SARS epidemic is a quintessential example of how easy it is for a virulent disease to spread quickly from country to country so quickly that before a response can be built, hundreds or even thousands of people can become infected, sometimes with dire consequences. SARS may or may not ever become a truly global catastrophic disease, but we can see in it the possibility of true disaster in some future infectious outbreak that may spread even more easily. SARS is not the first, nor will it be the last, epidemic likely to evolve quietly in one place and then rapidly spread throughout the modern world, seemingly catching millions of people by surprise. HIV started in rural Africa, and without anyone noticing, it spread to America and around the world long before any effective measures of prevention or treatment were developed. Influenza kills tens of thousands of Americans every year. Most of the flu strains start off overseas, and yet these new strains of flu reliably attack Americans every winter. What if a true killer flu hits? Are we to sit back and hope the government has an answer? Are we winning the battle with these kinds of infectious diseases? Probably not. New statistics recently published by the CDC (Center for Disease Control) indicate that flu deaths are on the rise in the United States. Public health experts had hoped that the development of flu vaccine about forty years ago would have had a greater effect than it has. Researchers say that a more lethal strain of flu virus has hit in recent years, contributing to the increase in deaths. And the increase in virulence of the flu can have further consequences. It can easily progress to pneumonia and other life-threatening lung infections, and to other diseases, in turn caused by newly evolving microbes.

The ever-evolving super bug phenomenon is here to stay

rld Health Organization A recent report by the Wo st all infectious diseases (WHO) warns that almo coming resistant to existare slowly but surely be ing medicines.

Mercifully, the flu season is generally limited, but the threat of an infectious epidemic, unfortunately, is not. As a result of the overuse of antibiotics in the developed world, infection-causing microbes are developing stronger strains that are able to overcome standard antibiotics. The super bug phenomenon is definitely here to stay. Super bugs are microbes that have become resistant to our antibiotics and to newer and more expensive medications. This means that infection may be increasing as a danger to all of us. These super bugs are said to be drug-resistant or antimicrobial-resistant because, as they evolved, certain mutations have arisen during the process of natural selection that make them resistant to our drugs. Once a resistance occurs or is spread, the change is probably irreversible. The problem of drug-resistance means that many of the diseases that used to be easily cured with antibiotics are now resurfacing in difficult-to-treat variants. These include pneumonia, diarrheal diseases, tuberculosis, gonorrhea, viral hepatitis and others. According to most experts, the age of inexpensive and effective antimicrobial drugs seems to be coming to an end. The over-prescribing of antibiotics has been one major cause of this new situation. Another factor, according to many researchers, has been the increased use of antimicrobial products such as cleaners and disinfectants designed to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, as well as other types of organisms like fungi, viruses and parasites. Add to that the use of antibiotics to promote growth of livestock and poultry, and the veterinary use of antibiotics to treat sick animals. Many of these products are the same as, or similar to those used to treat humans. They are all being increasingly found in human bodies. Combine all this with the natural evolution of new strains of microbes in crowded, agrarian regions like Asia, the Asian subcontinent and Africa, and it is realistic to say that epidemics similar to the SARS epidemic are likely to become more commonplace in years to come. SARS is caused by a new virulent strain of a common and formerly milder virus. Even when it is halted and a

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Discover the revolutionary microfiber-based cleaning cloth that lifts grease and dirt without or with very little cleaner/chemical/disinfectant. See page 23 for details. vaccine is developed for it, what is to prevent the next super bug? While flu shots may help against some strains of the flu, they are useless against the SARS virus, HIV, diarrheal diseases, tuberculosis, malaria and measles, which together account for over 90% of the total infectious disease deaths worldwide. Can medicine keep up with the new wave of super bugs? How many vaccines will we, or should we, need to take?

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Many factors can weaken the human immune system or diminish immune response, making an individual more susceptible to infectious disease. Among the factors that can subvert the immune system are:

stress old age chronic infection poor nutrition deficient energy unhygienic living
reserves conditions

Its Time for a Paradigm Shift

Proactively promoting optimal immune response of the body to all microbes

It should be obvious to everyone that a new paradigm of generalized prevention must be accepted by Americans and applied in our daily lives. Vaccination is a brilliant concept, though it is not Tonic herbs are safe, and effective always provided in an enlightened manner. Vaccines, by their very immune potentiators nature (a small amount of that microbe itself), are developed against There are many herbs that have been demonstrated in hundreds a particular strain of microbe, hence they are likely to be useless studies to support immune functions in such a way that the body is against any newly mutated strains. Antibiotics have their very more capable of responding to attack by microbes. Most of the important place, but their shortfall has become obvious. Chinese tonic herbs are not only antioxidant (antiaging) and vitalizVaccination, antibiotics and antiviral medicines, though increding, but also have profound immune potentiating (optimizing) ibly valuable, must be supported by a new paradigm based on the effects. Most of the major tonic herbs can be taken on a regular basis concept of proactively promoting optimal immune response to all to boost overall immune functions, while establishing and mainmicrobes. That means boosting the immune capacity of the body taining balanced immune functions. In a sense, the tonic herbs are through nutrition, herbs, supplements, exercise and other means. like food to the immune system. Tonic herbs are not generally conUntil recently, that concept has not really crossed the minds of sidered to be specifically medicinal, after-the-fact. The tonic herbs either the established medical community or the general public. promote normal, healthy organic functions on a long-term basis. You mean its possible to fortify my immune system as a whole? Studies have shown that, when used properly, they are very safe and What a novel idea except that this is the basic precept of Chinese free of negative side effects for the vast majority of people. Though tonic herbalism. tonic herbs can stimulate the immune system in those who are But to the surprise of many people, even those who live abunimmuno-compromised, they do not cause the immune system to dant lives have a real chance of developing an impaired immune become hyperactive or result in autoimmune responses. They are system. Heavy physical exercise, chronic or acute stress, UV radiaideal as a basis for establishing the paradigm shift that is imperative tion, electro-magnetic fields, food preserin our modern times. vatives, high-fat diets and antibiotics are all known to contribute to a weakening of the The tonic herbs are like A high percentage of heart attacks are immune system. As a result, many food to the immune system. caused by chronic inflammation of carAmericans are far more compromised than Using tonic herbs may seem to be a diovascular vessels. Clogging is not just they would like to believe. step backwards from high technologys silver caused by deposited fat, but also by Furthermore, it has now been well bullets, but they are not. Tonic herbal extracts plaques that form around the inflammaestablished that a compromised immune are produced these days in state-of-the-art tory spots started by viruses and other system accelerates the aging process. nutraceutical factories under strict scientific microbes. So eating lean is not going to Reduced immune functions can result in controls. Superior brands use standardized guarantee you to be heart-attack free. chronic viral, fungal, parasitic and bacteriherbs grown by natural means under strictly You also need to build up the immunity al infection, as well as an increased incicontrolled conditions without the use of pestiof your cardiovascular system against dence of cancers, reduced wound healing viruses and bacteria and to minimize

capacity and cardiovascular disease. Chronic infections or inflammation can produce overwhelming free radical activity that accelerates aging and many degenerative conditions, many of which can lead to debilitated states of health and premature death. For example, certain chronic infections and inflammation are now implicated in the majority of cases of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Cancer too is directly related in most cases to the state of ones immune system, and in many cases to specific viral or inflammatory conditions. There is no question that by proactively nurturing ones immune system, a person is protecting their life in numerous ways and slowing down the aging process.

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inflammation.

Polysaccharides are most abundant in the tonic herbs. By consuming any one of these herbs, or a formulation containing Macrophages are our first line of defense and play the some or all of these herbs, on a regular basis, you are directly nurpivotal role in our immune response to any attack by any turing a fundamental component of your life. Bodybuilders and athintruder. Macrophages are the immune cells that recogletes consume protein to nurture their muscles. Women consume nize, engulf and destroy any organisms, cells, and subcalcium to protect and nurture their bones. It is time that everyone stances that dont belong in the body, including viruses, consumes polysaccharide-rich herbs to nurture and activate the allbacteria, fungi, yeast, heavy metals, pollutants, bits of important immune system. dead tissue, mutated cells, tumor cells, etc. They take on It is worth noting that researchers have concluded that in the any challenge and further stimulate the immune system to two thousand year recorded history of Chinese herbology, there has respond. Macrophages ignite intercellular communication by been no indication that herbs have ever stimulated microbes to form releasing chemical messengers called cytokines (interferresistant strains. The tonic herbs in particular have only had the on and interleukin). These cytokines are powerful proteins effect of strengthening human resistance to disease. Chinese herbs responsible for catalyzing and regulating several immune are ubiquitous in Asia, used by the majority of Asian people, and yet responses within the body. Macrophages can travel from these herbs have not been connected to any super bug development. the site of their first contact with an intruder or toxin to the This stands in sharp contrast to the fact that in just a half lymph system, where it communicates with T-cells, century we have created numerous new strains of activating a specific immune response. Specific microbes that are more virulent than Mother antibodies are then built to combat the specific Nature had generated on her own. It seems clear intruder. that any antibiotic may become useless after just a generation or two or three, and that we are creating new and more dangerous microbes as a direct concides and chemicals. The resulting products consequence of relying on antibiotics. tain health-promoting phytochemicals that pharChinese herbalism uses formulas. Each formula maceutical technology simply cannot produce. contains several herbs, with each herb containing dozens, and in many cases hundreds, of phytochemiHow Tonic Herbs Boost cals. The focus of Chinese herbalism has been on creatImmune Response The polysaccharide- ing long-term, well-balanced, low side effect formulas activated macrophage It has been noted for centuries, and more recently by while the western pharmaceutical model has focused on is a veritable powermodern science that the tonic herbs tend to support creating (usually synthetically) a single chemical comhouse in terms of non-specific immunity often dramatically. Many pound for immediate results. It is easy for microbes to immune activity. of the tonics that have been proven to have these build resistance against one or a few chemical comimmune strengthening effects contain phytochemicals known pounds, but impossible against hundreds or thousands hence the as polysaccharides. Polysaccharides are wonderful nutrients that different results of the two systems after thousands of years of appliwe should all be trying to consume daily in some abundance. They cation. are completely non-toxic, safe, and orally effective. Unfortunately, Antibiotics, antiviral drugs and vaccines will always have an they are generally lacking in our diet. Polysaccharides are very well important place in medicine they save lives but in an enlightknown among physiologists and biochemists for their ability to ened society their use should not replace the concept of prevention boost the functioning of the immune system as a whole, and of speand the proactive promotion of health that can be provided by good cific immune cells that carry out the tasks of preventing and fightnutrition and tonic herbs. ing infectious disease. Polysaccharides are the natural activator of the allimportant white blood cells known as macrophages. There are specific receptors for the immune stimulating polysaccharides on the surface of all macrophages. When activated, these macrophages stimulate a cascade of events turning the body into a powerful fighting machine, capable of taking on and eliminating almost any David Heymann, the senior World Health Organization invading microbe or other antigen (foreign invader). expert in communicable diseases, believes that it is highly The tonic herbs are sources of many phytochemicals, besides likely that a new SARS outbreak will occur next winter. Since the polysaccharides, that have other beneficial influences on the the disease resembles the flu, health officials may be forced to quarantine many people with common illnesses due to the immune response. Many have been proven to have potent antiviral lack of a diagnostic test for the SARS virus. activity. Most tonic herbs have significant antioxidant activity as It is well established that the human immune system well. can be fortified. The time to focus on this fortification is NOW, since it takes time to build immune cells.

Macrophages, our first line of defense

Why We Need to Take Tonic Herbal Supplements

W.H.O. warns of SARS Recurrence Next Flu Season

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Some of the tonic herbs that are rich in polysaccharides and other immune optimizing phytochemicals
Agaricus mushroom American Ginseng root* Asian Ginseng root* Astragalus root* Codonopsis root* Cordyceps mushroom* Epimedium leaf Gynostemma leaf* Licorice root* Ligustrum fruit Lycium fruit Maitake mushroom Polygonum root Poria mushroom* Reishi mushroom* Shitake mushroom Rhodiola root*

Health beyond danger

herbs are not specifically preventative to any one specific disease. They are more than preventative. They have non-specific healthpromoting activity. They help make you more ready for anything.

*Pictures of these herbs can be seen on page 12 & 13. Protect Yourself Now

It just makes sense that we should do everything within our means to boost the functioning of our immune systems so that we have a better chance of successfully defending ourselves against microbial attack. We owe it to ourselves, to our families and to society to win our own individual battle against infectious disease. The tonic herbs are a real and important tool in that battle. The tonic

In Asia, the old masters said that our goal should be to attain a state known as radiant health. The term radiant health was defined as health beyond danger. Isnt this the correct goal? We cannot eliminate the dangers of the world, but we can build our health to a level that it transcends most danger. We have available to us the natural tools to achieve this state of health if we choose to use them. It is a fact of life that, in this small world of the twenty first century, disease anywhere can mean disease everywhere. We do not want to wait to become a victim of a new and terrible disease and hope that conventional medicine will come up with a quick answer. Longevity and health are at least partially predicated on preparedness. And in this era, preparedness necessarily involves protecting ourselves proactively against infectious diseases. We need to protect ourselves to the best of our ability with tools that we know are powerful, safe and effective. Tonic herbs fit the bill perfectly.

it is a very safe herb with wonderful health benefits. Several studies have documented this mushrooms ability to activate various comAgaricus blazei murill (most commonponents of the immune system. ly known simply as Agaricus) is a mushThe active constituents were identified room that originated in the rain forests of as the polysaccharide-protein complexes Brazil. The mushroom thrives in certain called Beta-1,6-D-glucan and an almost tropical areas of China and the Chinese have identical chemical, Beta-1,3-D-glucan. become the premier These glucans have been growers of Agaricus to found to be remarkable It is very common for tonic the world. Agaricus is immune stimulants. They traditionally known as herbs to benefit many health con- are potent macrophage Gods Mushroom ditions, while medicinal herbs and activators. These glucan because people have drugs tend to address only a few polysaccharides work long believed that it has specific symptoms and conditions. through the glucan recepnear-miraculous cura- Tonic herbs work on a deep level tor on the surface of the tive benefits to a wide correcting imbalances that are the immensely important range of disorders. root of many problems. As an immune cells, the People have used it to axiom to the new paradigm of macrophages. Agaricus overcome numerous proactive immune potentiation, it promotes the essential diseases and disorders is best to dismiss the western immune response process relating to the immune notion that one drug/herb is only of activating the system, cardiovascular good for one symptom. macrophage, increasing system, digestion, production of cytokines weight management, diabetes, chronic and and generating specific antibodies (for more acute allergies, cataracts, hearing difficulinformation see page 4). ties, stress syndrome, chronic fatigue, diarBeta-1,6-D-glucan and Beta-1,3-Drhea, constipation, and disorders of the liver. glucan have been shown to have inhibitory It is being studied throughout the world to effects on abnormal cell growths. It has determine how it works. This is for certain been proposed that they may stimulate cell

Agaricus

Gods mushroom

lysing (destroying) action in specialized immune system cells. Agaricus mushroom has also been shown to have potent chemopreventive activity. Agaricus is now being used clinically all over Asia for numerous diseases and disorders. However, it is also being consumed as a food and as a tonic herb, since Agaricus is a gentle, edible mushroom that has no side effects. Agaricus mushroom is by far the richest natural source of Beta-1,6-D-glucan and Beta-1,3-D-glucan known to mankind. By enhancing the bodys natural defenses, this humble mushroom is a powerful protector. It should be consumed daily to maintain its powerful tonic effect on the immune system.

Agaricus (100 capsules)

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R
6

on Teeguarden spent a week this past June visiting the Kingdom of Bhutan, participating in discussions with various herbalists, government officials, scientists, farmers and business people regarding the herbal resources of Bhutan. He also had the opportunity to visit various extraordinary herbal and cultural sites in a number of regions of Bhutan.

Dragon Herbs founder takes a historic journey to the previously closed Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, and after numerous meetings with government officials, he establishes the first outlet to the world for dozens of extraordinary, wild and organically grown herbs

The remote Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan has remained hidden from the world for over sixteen centuries. By imperial decree, the kingdom has refused to open up to the rest of the world and has maintained an exquisite isolation. To this day, there is not a single traffic light in the entire Kingdom of Bhutan! It is also the least polluted sovereign nation in the world. Bhutan has been known variously in history by the Tibetans and other Himalayan peoples of the as the Garden of the Gods, the Paradise to the South and the Land of Ten Thousand Herbs, and is often called the last Shangri-La by people who have heard tales of its lush and awesome beauty and of its remarkable society and culture. To those living in this secluded mountain refuge, the land is known as Druk Yul the Land of the Thunder Dragon. From time immemorial, Bhutan has been the traditional source of raw material supply to the Tibetan indigenous medical practice. Bhutan can boast of having a very high diversity of medicinal plants, which grow from the sub-tropical foothills on the border with India to the high alpine meadows on the northern border with Tibet.

Bhutan the last Shangri-La

With 72% coverage of forests, and its diverse climates ranging from sub-tropical rain forests all way up to alpine peaks, the entire kingdom is a botanists and herbalists paradise. Thousands of species of medicinal and tonic plants can be found in the forests, valleys and mountains. Over two thousand species of medicinal plants have been identified, and thousands of others are used by the people and by local shaman. Several of these herbs, including cordyceps, ginseng and reishi mushroom, currently play a major role in Chinese tonic herbalism, which has now become a fundamental part of modern herbal practice throughout the world.

A remarkable vision sustaining the worlds largest organic garden

An botanists paradise

The government of Bhutan is attempting to manage its abundant and impressive ecological treasures at the same time as it merges its culture and economy into the world at large. The country has been both guided and protected by policies that are protectionist. The end result to date is a geographically secluded, stable ecosystem, extraordinarily rich in natural resources. The air, water and soil in Bhutan are absolutely pristine. All the water in Bhutan is glacial water, running off some of the highest peaks in the world. The air contains virtually no pollutants. The soil throughout Bhutan is virtually free of herbicides, pesticides, heavy metals or other pollutants, since these harmful materials have never been allowed in Bhutan. Bhutan is virtually the worlds largest organic garden. All herbal resources are currently strictly controlled by the government, and no manufacture or export can occur without government approval and participation. Studies are being conducted by the government on an ongoing basis to insure that no

harvest of any herb will threaten sustainability of any one plant or in any way harm the ecosystem. Ron Teeguarden, who was an ecology major at the University of Michigan, has maintained a life-long interest in the issue of conservation and environmental issues. Ron has special interest in the Bhutanese peoples unique approach to ecological policy. The emphasis on non-polluting agricultural practices and on sustainability are quite profound. It is inevitable, if the Bhutanese succeed in their efforts to develop a modern nation while maintaining the ecology of the entire country, that Bhutan will become a model for numerous other countries. The prize could be an acceleration in the world-wide movement toward a more ecological sound world.

Now, for the first time ever, the Bhutanese government has granted its permission for one group and just one group to engage in the business of growing, harvesting, preparing, manufacturing and exporting herbs and other botanicals from all regions within Bhutan to the outside world. The group formed by Ron Teeguarden, Garnet Dupuis, Benchen Khenpo, John Gale and Alan Lau has been granted permission by the Bhutanese government to engage in botanical commerce with Bhutanese herbs.

Bringing Bhutanese herbs to the outside world

In a presentation to the Dragon Herbs staff upon returning from Bhutan, Ron said: This is an unprecedented opportunity in the modern era to participate in the creation of the worlds first truly ecologically driven society, and simultaneously to participate in the development of a botanical and herbal production base that will provide completely pure, non-polluted, organic botanicals and medicinal herbs to the entire world. Grown in Bhutan and Bhutan Botanicals will soon be known throughout the world as a guaranty of purity and quality unsurpassed in the world, much as grown on Changbai Mountain means the best to people who know Chinese herbs. Some of the worlds greatest tonic herbs grow abundantly in Bhutan, including at least three varieties of wild ginseng, cordyceps, rhodiola, reishi mushroom, astragalus, and many others. These herbs have been growing in totally pristine environments and under ideal conditions. And we have been blessed with the opportunity to be the first purveyors of these extraordinary Bhutanese botanicals to the world. China has already developed its herbal base, and has already developed methods of sustainable growth of tonic herbs. Bhutan, in declaring a similar policy, is following an enlightened path of ecological management blended with humanitarian goals and the benefits of herbal commerce to its people. Were just proud to be part of it.

The natural pristine environment of Bhutan

Ron Teeguarden and Benchen Khenpo (left), one of Rons partners in the Bhutan Botanical Project, met with a botanist in the field to discuss the cultivation of Bhutanese herbs.

(From left to right) Benshen Khenpo, Ron Teeguarden, His Excellency the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji, and Garnet Dupuis met to discuss the agricultural and forestry policies of Bhutan. The government agreed to provide full support for the ecologically sound development of herbs currently growing in its extraordinarily rich and expansive wilderness.

The Annual Event Takes a Once-in-a-Decade Leap to the Level of the Unsurpassable. The Twins distinguish this batch from any that have come before it

nce each year Dragon Herbs produces the most extraordinary ginseng product in the world, Heaven Drops. This hydro-ethanolic extract is made exclusively from wild ginseng. And not just any wild ginseng, but the finest roots available in the world. Though pricey by some standards at $350 per 2-ounce bottle, ginseng connoisseurs and experts consider it an excellent value. Production of Heaven Drops is extremely limited and often sells out before it hits the shelves. Wild ginseng is considered to be the ultimate adaptogenic herb in the world and has been the most revered herb in Asia for over 5,000 years. It is agreed by all ginseng experts and connoisseurs that wild ginseng is far superior to cultivated. As a result, the price and perceived value for wild ginseng is much higher than for cultivated roots. Price is determined by the age of the root, the weight, the source (location in which it was found), and the hardship experienced by the root during its lifetime. Old wild roots that come from very high altitudes in the Changbai Mountain biosphere of Manchuria, and that have experienced a great deal of stress to survive, are the most valuable herbs in the world. A typical, high quality Chinese wild ginseng root that weighs less than an ounce will generally sell for $500 to $2000. Roots that are fifteen years and older are considered quite valuable. Thirty year old roots are considered extremely valuable. Roots older than 40 years are now very hard to come by and can cost thousands, if not tens of thousands of dollars in Asian markets such as Hong Kong, Shanghai and Tokyo.

Wild Ginseng roots, belovedly known as the Twins. These extraordinary wild roots form the foundation of Heaven Drops.

ginsengs are believed to have absorbed the essence of Heaven and Earth to be able to survive that long in wild, thus possessing transformative power.

The older the better rule for Ginseng

Wild ginseng is much more powerful than cultivated ginseng, containing a much higher content of ginsenosides, the primary active constituent of ginseng. It has more energy than cultivated roots, has a much more balanced chemistry and is not as yang, or hot as the younger cultivated roots. It is energizing and relaxing at the same time and has a distinct mood elevating effect, though it is not considered to be mind altering. It is also believed to have profound impact on our Shen (our spirituality and consciousness). Wild

Why is wild ginseng so revered?

Wild Chinese ginseng roots grow in the high mountains of Manchuria, and other varieties grow in rugged wilderness areas in Asia and even in North America. Generally, the older the root and the more remote the region from which it is collected, the better the root. Ginseng roots are quite vulnerable to fungus, worms and other attackers when they are young. Most roots in the wild do not survive past the first couple of years. But as ginseng grows older, it is forced to fight off the bugs, microbes and extremely inclement weather conditions. Through its survival process, wild ginseng produces more and more ginsenosides, the remarkable phytochemicals that make ginseng the ultimate tonic herb. Once a ginseng has survived in the wild for about fifteen years, it generally becomes rather invincible. Some studies even indicate that the death gene turns off in roots that reach this age. Unless the root is eaten by an animal like a deer or a human, it can supposedly live up to two hundred years (and some people believe even longer). It must be considered that this is a soft, vulnerable root about the size of a carrot living in an extraordinarily harsh environment. Now try to imagine a carrot living to be 200 years old -- pretty unthinkable, isnt it! Wild ginseng contains far more varieties and amount of ginsenosides than cultivated ginseng. The older a ginseng root and the

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ance of a bodily function. It favors neither left nor right, neither up nor down, but rather the centered and balanced state. (Shouldnt this be the golden practicing guideline for all the politicians out there? We may finally achieve world peace this way.) Double direction activity is a distinguishing factor in the adaptogenic ability of ginseng. Ginsenosides help to modulate physiological activities so that they do not go out of balance, and therefore expand a persons capacity to take on additional challenges in life without the risk of breaking down. They also aid in the various bodily functions that produce energy, endurance, concentration and physiological efficiency.

Ginseng collectors carefully and respectfully removing a wild ginseng root from the virgin soil of a Manchurian forest.

more hardship it has had to endure, the greater the number of different ginsenosides and the larger the amount in a root. Roots that are over four years old are considered mature by industry standards, but these roots have only a dozen or so ginsenosides and the balance may be imprecise. By connoisseur standards, they are still immature. Immature low quality roots are often too yang and can have side effects. They can cause a person to have headaches, neck tension and even high blood pressure. For that reason, people who really know about ginseng never consume cheap ginseng products such as those commonly sold at convenience stores and in most natural foods stores. Unfortunately, this is the ginNewly collected wild Chiangbai seng that most Americans are Mountain ginseng roots resting in exposed to. moist moss to preserve its freshness. When a root is eight years old, the ginsenoside profile is both broader and more balanced, with its number reaching as many as two dozen. Cultivated roots are generally 4-5 years old, but never older than eight years, primarily for economic reasons. Ginsenosides have the ability to improve human adaptability to stress. They help regulate numerous endocrine, neurological and immunological functions. They strengthen respiration and digestion. Wild ginseng roots, which typically range in the fifteen to fifty year old range when collected, have dozens of ginsenosides in elegantly developed pairs. One set of ginsenosides stimulates certain body function while the other set suppresses the same functions. These pairings result in a physiological process known as double direction activity. These two opposing yet interdependent factors interaction with each other reflects perfectly the Law of Yin and Yang, resulting in the ultimate balance of body functions. For example, Ginseng prevents over fatigue and it increases alertness, yet it is not a stimulant like coffee. In fact, it is often used in a great many sleep aid formulations. Ginseng is clinically reported as effective in the treatment of both hypo- and hypertension. In short, a good adaptogenic herb should restore the bal-

A decade ago, Ron grew more and more frustrated with the fact that wild ginseng was never available in an easy, user friendly format and that it had remained at a legendary, but non-consumable level for him and his clients. After ruining several thousand-dollar roots in the home cooking, he decided to gather the best wild roots he could find in a large enough quantity that he could make a professional extraction. He then shared the limited extraction with his wild-ginseng-aficionado clients. Since wild Ginsengs are believed to have absorbed the essence of Heaven and Earth to be able to survive that long in the wild, Ron named the extraction Heaven Drops. The product immediately attracted connoisseurs from around the world. Heaven Drops is a super-concentrated hydro-ethanolic extract of an extraordinary variety of wild ginsengs. Besides wild Chinese ginseng, Heaven Drops also contains extremely high quality wild American ginseng, wild Siberian ginseng and wild Himalayan ginseng, as well as other rare wild ginseng species and varieties. No root is ever used in Heaven Drops that is less than fifteen years old. Typically, Heaven Drops contains numerous wild roots that are over thirty years old. It always contains a number of roots that survived (and thrived) for over 50 years in the wild before being found. Heaven Drops is unquestionably the richest source of ginsenosides and is the most perfectly balanced ginseng product in the

Rons craving for a perfect wild ginseng root resulted in the creation of Heaven Drops

Double Direction Activity

The Ginseng Crew with the wild ginseng roots used to make the Fall 2003 batch of Heaven Drops.

world. Not even in China or Japan is such a product available. Ron personally collects and/or selects each and every wild ginseng root used in this amazing extract. Every time Ron and his wife Yanlin go to China, they go to Chiangbai Mountain and purchase wild ginseng roots from the Ginseng Institute, as well as from collectors and other local sources, including the ginseng hunters themselves. They also collect premium wild roots from sources in Beijing, Hong Kong and Shanghai.

The Twins

The current batch of Heaven Drops, however, is different from any batch that has come before. Although every batch ever produced has been extraordinary, this batch contains the ginseng roots now lovingly known as the Twins. Just as Dragon Herbs was about to go into production on this years Heaven Drops, Ron was presented with the opportunity to obtain a pair of Chiangbai Mountain wild ginseng roots of ultimate quality. Of course, he took advantage of the opportunity and purchased them for use in Heaven Drops. The Twins were found growing together near a waterfall close to the peak of Chiangbai Mountain, a volcanic biosphere in
Ron Teeguarden finds a wild ginseng root growing in the high mountains of Bhutan.

Manchuria that is considered to be the origin of all ginseng and the source of the best ginseng in the world. At first Ron was going to put one of the Twins in the current production batch, and save the other twin for the next batch. But upon further consideration, it became intuitively apparent that it would be wrong to break up the Twins in their great journey. It is said in China that a person doesnt choose a ginseng root, but that a ginseng root chooses a person. Ron and the Dragon Herbs staff came to the conclusion that since the roots were found together and were sold as a pair, that they should be offered that way to the end. Therefore this batch of Heaven Drops will contain both of the Twins, along with numerous other extraordinary roots, any one of which could have been the king herb in virtually any tonic herbal formula made in the world. Supplies of this batch of Heaven Drops Wild Ginseng are extremely limited, and the number of bottles available to any one individual will be subject to the Wesley Snipes Rule *. Visit dragonherbs.com for photographic and video presentations of the ginseng roots used in this batch of Heaven Drops, and in particular, of the TWINS.

EARTH DROPS The second extraction of Heaven Drops. That makes it the second most extraordinary wild ginseng extract in the world, period! Code 002...................................................................$150 2 fluid oz. 500 GINSENG A full spectrum ginseng product made from the broadest selectin of ginsengs: wild Chinese, American, Siberian and Himalayan ginseng roots, and the best cultivated roots from China and Korea (no root less than 8 years old) including roots cultivated on the preserve that once belonged to the Emperor of China. If you tend to like ALL IN ONE, this should be your choice. Code 003...................................................................$150 2 fluid oz.

HEAVEN DROPS* *10 bottles maximum per customer The most extraordinary wild ginseng extract in the world, period! Code 001...................................................................$350 2 fluid oz.

The Ginseng Collection from Dragon Herbs

GRANDPAS GINSENG An excellent extract made from our cultivated Changbai Mountain ginseng. High quality and very affordable. Code 022...................................................................$19 2 fluid oz.

GINSENG SUBLIME This is a well balanced ginseng formula that consists of high quality cultivated roots that are 6-8 years old and a small amount of wild ginseng. A best buy item for the most of us. Code 019....................................................................$39 2 fluid oz.

ACTIVE GINSENG Active Ginseng is produced by a cutting edge, natural technology that preserves all the active constituents in ginseng. Traditional drying methods lose certain amount of active ingredients such ginsenosides and ginseng polysaccharides during the drying process. Active Ginseng is as close as you can get to eating a freshly picked ginseng root. The extraordinary rich aroma and flavor tells it all! A Dragon Herbs exlcusive. Code 525...............................................................$18 100 capsules. Buy More Save More Discount Program. See back cover for details.

long life. A person who has lots of Qi will be energetic, vibrant and full of life. When Qi becomes deficient, however, we become weak and fatigued. Significant chronic deficiency will result in chronic fatigue and depression. If the deficiency continues for too long, the body functions falter. Sometimes, due to stress, tension, inflammation and other reasons, Qi becomes blocked and stagnant. If Qi becomes blocked or stuck, the body and mind become imbalanced and sickness is likely to occur. For this reason, it is central to Asian health practice to learn how to increase the Qi in our body and how to insure that it is flowing smoothly. Everything that exists in the universe is, in one form or another, a manifestation of Yin and Yang. Through the interaction of Yin and Yang, energy is created. Thus, from the densest object to the subtlest vibration, everything that exists is a form of energy. All of Chinese philosophy is founded on the energetic nature of all things. Things are not seen materially, but as ever-changing states of energy. This includes living beings. This is the same idea expressed by modern physicists, who now universally agree that mass and energy are one and the same. The Chinese word for energy is Qi (sometimes spelled Chi, and pronounced chee). The Koreans and Japanese call it Ki (pronounced kee). Qi permeates all things in the universe and is the motivating force of all activity. A Chinese classic states that:

What Is Qi

"There is nothing between Heaven and Earth but Qi and Tao (the Way and the laws that govern it). Tao (the Way of Nature) itself is based on Qi. Everything in the Universe relies upon it. When the Qi is outside Heaven and Earth, it embraces them. When Qi is inside Heaven and Earth, it circulates through and sustains them. Planets depend on Qi for their brightness; weather is formed by it, and the seasons are caused by it. Man cannot stand outside of Qi. It supports him and permeates him as water is contained within the ocean."

Resilience is an enormous aspect of radiant health. I consider it to be one of the key features. Resilience is the result of adaptability, and thus the concept of adaptability is central to the concept of radiant health. The ability to adapt to the stresses of life is fundamental to life itself. Adaptability is the root of evolution and is the secret to biological success. The more adaptable one is, the more flexibility and resiliency one will be capable of showing in one's life. Adaptability is inherent in all living creatures, and human beings are inherently one of the most adaptable creatures on earth. Success in the modern world can often be measured by how well we can handle stress. The person who is capable of handling more stress is capable of taking on greater challenges, heavier work loads, more confrontation, and can, in general, get more done. Successfully overcoming obstacles is the truest way to grow in experience, knowledge and wisdomall very good things. Those who can handle stress will generally move up in the world much more quickly. It could easily be said that the motto of our age is: He or she who can handle more stress most successfully wins! Qi is adaptive energy and if a person has more Qi, they will generally be much more adaptive than if they lack an abundance of Qi. Life is predicated on the ability to protect itself. Qi is the energy of protection. Besides promoting adaptability, which inherently is a type of protective life force, we all need to have vibrant protection on both the psychic and physical levels. When a person has an abundance of Qi, they will be sharper and clearer on the mental and intuitive levels. The immune system is directly connected to our level of Qi. Our defensive Qi is really the Qi of our immune system. If our defensive Qi is strong and free flowing, we will tend to be more resistant to infections, inflammation and disease. A critical characteristic of Qi tonic herbs is their ability to enhance the energy in the body on the levels described above. Qi tonics improve human vitality, enhance our adaptability and protect us by helping us to remain mentally sharp and immunologically strong. Because Qi tonics enhance adaptability, Qi tonic herbs are generally known as adaptogenic herbs. When a person consumes these adaptogenic herbs regularly, their capacity to handle stress more efficiently is significantly and noticeably enhanced. Since stress is a major cause of aging and disease, adaptogenic herbs are believed to promote longevity and to protect the body at a fundamental level. Hundreds of scientific studies have now confirmed the adaptogenic nature of these herbs. Another aspect of their greatness lies in their ability to harmonize the physical energies within the body, and to harmonize the physical and psychic energies of a human being so as to increase optimum functioning. Qi is said in traditional Chinese health science to be produced as a result of the functions of the Lungs (respiratory functions) and Spleen (digestive and assimilative functions). Qi tonic herbs optimize the functioning of these two systems. In addition, Qi tonics have potent immune potentiating activity. In fact, they are among the most potent immune boosting substances on earth. For this reason alone, people should consume Qi tonics on a regular basis. It is the goal of Chinese tonic herbalism to improve the absorption and utilization of Qi, according to the laws of Nature. It is possible through the consumption of certain "tonic herbs," and through the development of one's breathing, to influence the various aspects of Qi within our systems and to establish harmonious functioning as a result.

Adaptability

Qi is sometimes translated as vitality or life force. These are useful descriptive terms insofar as Qi influences life. It is important for the student of Oriental philosophy and especially of the Oriental healing arts to remember that Qi exists everywhere, even in a lowly rock. The atmosphere is full of Qi, and the air is a primary source of Qi for human beings. The Earth provides Qi that it has itself accumulated, in the form of food which we eat. The nature of life is to extract Qi from its environment and to transform it so as to live, adapt and to create more life. The more energy, or Qi, that a living system can accumulate and utilize, the more success it will have as a living being. A less-than-adequate ability to extract Qi from one's environment and/or an inability to utilize it properly will result in failure of the organism, sickness and death.

Protection

Qi Tonic Herbs

Qi is one of the three treasures of Chinese health philosophy (Jing and Shen are the other two treasures). Although Qi is generally defined as all energy, in the three treasures system it represents human vitality on a more or less immediate basis. Qi is the aspect of our life which involves action, function and thought. Qi is the source of our daily vitality. It nourishes and protects us. The Qi that nourishes us is known as nutritive Qi and that Qi which protects us is known as protective Qi. Both are produced from food and air on a day-to-day, moment-to-moment basis. The Chinese define many different kinds of human physiologic Qi. Air Qi is the energy derived from the air through our breathing. The energy derived from food is called Food Qi and includes all the nutrients and electromagnetic energy ingested and absorbed from foods and liquids. Blood too is considered to be a form of highly concentrated Qi. Blood is said to be produced from the food ingested after the Qi has been extracted through the action of the Spleen. The red blood cells are said to be nutritive and are Yin, while the white blood cells are protective and aggressive and are therefore Yang. Qi is essential to life. When a person has an abundance of Qi flowing through their body, they will function fully and effectively on all levels. Maintaining an abundance of Qi in the body is a primary secret to health and

Human Qi

Vitality

Free Qi Tonic poster page 12-13.

A Thank You! to all of our loyal customers.

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Qi Tonic Formulas from Dragon Herbs

Dragon Herbs offers a full line of Qi tonic formulations. They are all composed of the greatest Qi tonic herbs in the world. Combined in different ways, these herbs can tonify all the Qi-related functions of the body and mind, or they may tend to emphasize the development of vitality, adaptability or protection. All Qi tonic formulations, to some degree, tonify all three of these aspects of Qi in the body. All of the following products are powerful immune boosters. They all will increase vitalilty and they are all adaptogenic. It is recommended that everyone take one formula that emphasizes vitality and adaptability, and an additional formula or herb that has potent immune building effects. ADAPTOGEN ENERGIZER A tour de force of Qi tonic herbs. This formula contains all of the major adaptogenic tonic herbs and builds Qi on all levels. This formula even contains Ant. The ATP (cellular energy source) in ants can provide energy directly to the human body. Code 185........................................................................$32 SUPER PILL A does it all formulation that will boost adaptive energy and vitality on all levels. It is also a powerful immune modulator boosted by Gynostemma saponins and Lycium polysaccharides. This powerful adaptogenic formula is antiaging and has powerful spirit lifting and immune-boosting effects. Code 104........................................................................$52

DUANWOOD REISHI Reishi mushroom is the greatest of the protective Qi tonics. Duanwood Reishi is the best Reishi in the world. It is 100% naturally grown on wild duanwood logs in the high mountains of China. Reishi is a very effective immune tonic with a long history for reducing liver toxicity, and improving brain power. We offer pure Duanwood Reishi in both capsule and tincture forms. Capsule: Code 514..$36 Tincture: Code 005..$45 AGARICUS Agaricus is an extremely effective protective tonic. This mushroom is a rich source of immune boosting polysaccharides. Dragon Herbs offers pure Agaricus extract in capsule and elixir forms. See page 5 for details. Code 501........................................................................$40

Protective Qi Tonics

SPRING DRAGON LONGEVITY TEA This is the perfect daily tea. It is cleansing, tonifying and protective. A powerful adaptogenic formula that is pleasant to consume. See back cover for details. Code 601........................................................................$9 DIAMOND MIND The name says it all. Contains five major brain tonics, including Rhodiola, Schizandra and Ginkgo biloba. The formula has noticeable impact on ones mental energy, mental focus and mental endurance. Capsule: Code 160..$26 Tincture: Code 023..$32

CORDYCEPS CAPSULES This Himalayan herb is revered in the Orient for its deep energizing, adaptability-enhancing ability. Cordyceps benefits the bodys ability to extract Qi from air. Cordyceps strengthens the lungs and kidneys and is considered a powerful sexual tonic. Code 506........................................................................$36

PROTECTOR 2000 Protector 2000 contains Reishi spores, which are 70 times more potent as an immune system modulator than Reishi mushroom, plus Agaricus and Lycium polysaccharides, both potent immune potentiators. It is superb for people who are already severely immuno-compromised, as well as for those who want superior protection. Code 193........................................................................$65

FOUR KINGS Contains four tonic mushrooms, each of which have been proven to improve immune functions Agaricus, Duanwood Reishi, Cordyceps and Maitake mushroom. This is an appropriate protective Qi tonic for those who have compromised immune functions because these herbs are quick at fortifying the immune system. Code 197........................................................................$36

SUPREME PROTECTOR Supreme Protector is our best selling immune booster. It contains four of the greatest immune modulators in the world Duanwood Reishi, Astragalus, Cordyceps and Schizandra. Taken together, these four herbs build energy, protect the liver from toxins, strengthen the adrenals and improve mental power. Code 100........................................................................$36

ASTRAGALUS Astragalus root is recognized around the world as one of the premier immune optimizing herbs. It is also a powerful energizer. Our Astragalus is extremely potent. Code 502........................................................................$27

TEN COMPLETE SUPERTONIC This classic Qi tonic has been used for eighteen centuries to build Qi and Blood. Especially good for women who desire to tonify their blood, and for those recovering from illness or surgery. Code 312........................................................................$21

8 IMMORTALS (tincture) Perhaps the finest Qi tonic adaptogenic formula in the world, made from wild and semi wild Qi tonics. Contains wild Ginseng, wild Reishi, Duanwood Reishi, wild Tibetan Rhodiola, wild Schizandra. Eight Immortals will provide an abundance of Qi on both an immediate and long term basis. It is also a profound Shen tonic that helps to clear the mind and sharpen spiritual awareness. This may be the elixir of immortality. Code 017........................................................................$55 2 fl. oz.

QI DROPS All of the major Qi tonic herbs in a hydro-alcoholic tincture for those who prefer this form. A quick acting Qi booster for those who enjoy tinctures. Code 024........................................................................$30 2 fl. oz.

SUPER ADAPTOGEN A broad spectrum blend of the most important adaptogenic herbs in the world and a potent immune modulator. It contains fifteen Qi tonics, headed by Tibetan Rhodiola & Ginseng. This is the perfect Qi tonic for most individuals who wish to build vitality and increase adaptability. Code 186........................................................................$23

Adaptogenic and Vitality Increasing Qi Tonics

SIBERIAN GINSENG (tincture) Siberian Ginseng is especially popular among athletes or physical workers who require substantial sources of adaptive energy and endurance, such as runners, tennis players and bicyclists. It increases respiratory power by improving bodys ability to absorb and efficiently use oxygen. Code 020........................................................................$25

GINSENG AND ASTRAGALUS COMBINATION An ancient formula that is still the most widely consumed Qi tonic formula in the world. Helps to build, raise and circulate depressed Qi. Code 310........................................................................$21

GINSENG NUTRITIVE A great all-around classic tonic formulation the enhances adaptability and the three treasures, Jing, Qi and Shen. Benefits the bodys ability to extract Qi from food. Code 316........................................................................$23

For those who like science and for those who would feel more secure knowing that lots of research is being done on herbs we present a few abstracts of recent research on Chinese tonic herbs as a means of furthering your understanding of how these herbs function in the living body and how they may benefit us. These abstracts are but a taste of the thousands of scientific studies that have been published in recent years on the tonic herbs. There is no longer any doubt that the herbs have powerful health benefiting activities it is now a question of

how do they work? Many of the tonic herbs have dozens, or even hundreds, of active constituents. In most cases, the chemicals work in concert to bring about a specific healthrelated result. Some of the constituents in tonic herbs have been patented and isolated, and are being developed by pharmaceutical companies as drugs. You may look into this research yourself by going onto Medline.com. You may go into an abbreviated version of Medline without paying any fees by logging onto healthworld.com and clicking on Medline.

The direct release of nitric oxide by gypenosides derived from the herb Gynostemma pentaphyllum*
Abstract. Herbal medicines are increasingly being utilized to treat a wide variety of disease processes. Gypenosides are triterpenoid saponins contained in an extract from Gynostemma pentaphyllum* and are reported to be effective in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases; however, the mechanism underlying the therapeutic effect is not known. The researchers tested the hypothesis that gypenosides extracted from Gynostemma pentaphyllum elicit vasorelaxation through the direct release of nitric oxide in blood vessels. Results of laboratory research demonstrate that extracts of Gynostemma pentaphyllum directly stimulate nitric oxide release, but not production of inflammatory substances such as COX-2. Nitric oxide production in response to gypenosides may be one mechanism whereby this herb elicits its therapeutic effects. At the concentrations utilized, there was no morphological evidence for cellular toxicity. Laymans English: It has been widely reported that Gynostemma is beneficial In the treatment of cardiovascular disease. These researchers have identified at least one possible mechanism for that action.
Tanner MA , Bu X , Steimle JA , Myers PR , Nitric Oxide Journal, 3(5): 359-65 1999

Structural characterization and immunomodulating activity of a complex glucan from spores of Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) **.
Abstract. A polysaccharide obtained from the broken spores of Ganoderma lucidum**, was purified by anion-exchange and gel-permeation chromatography. This polysaccharide had a strong effect on suppressing the antibody production and the Con A induced lymphocyte proliferation in mice. Chemically, the structure of the polysaccharide was identified. It was concluded that the intact polysaccharide was a complex beta-D-glucan consisting of a (1 6)-linked backbone chain. The polysaccharide was found to have powerful immunomodulating and anti-tumor activity.
Bao X , Fang J , Li X , Bioscience Biotechnology Biochemistry, 65(11): 2384-91 2001

Laymans English: A photochemical (polysaccharide) found in broken Reishi spores was found to be immune optimizing and immune regulating and to have anti-tumor activity.

Editors note

* Gynostemma pentaphyllum is a major Chinese tonic herb that is the primary ingredient in Spring Dragon Longevity Tea, Gynostemma Capsules, Super Adaptogen and many other Dragon Herbs formulations.

Editors note

** The broken spores of Ganoderma lucidum (Duanwood Reishi) are the main ingredient in Dragon Herbs Protector 2000 formulation. All formulas containing Duanwood Reishi are extracted with the spores intact on the mushroom, therefore these formulas will also provide a small dose of spores extract.

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Mental strength lies in the ability to move between a multitasking state of mind and a focused state of mind at will

By Ron Teeguarden
The Need for Speed
Millions and millions of Americans seek ways to quicken their energy so that they can keep up with their own multitasking routines. Thats why the term Java (code for strong coffee) has become a keyword in computer lingo. People are drinking coffee, strong coffee, in unprecedented quantities, spawning Starbucks, among many others. Everybody is looking to get more done and Americas love affair with coffee is the direct result. Coffee is an interesting substance. Of course, it is an herb in the classical sense that it grows on trees and is brewed by natural means into a beverage for consumption for its effect on body and mind. Indeed, next to tea, coffee is the most popular herb in the world, and in America, it is number one. So it is important for many people to know a little bit about how coffee works so it doesnt end up ruining your health and shortening your multitasking life. As an herb, coffee is a stimulant. It is not a tonic herb. In its own right coffee does not contain anything that produces energy. But it does contain caffeine, which causes the body to release adrenaline into the blood Consider 2 new stream. Adrenaline coffee companions. (epinephrine) is a natural hormone released in For those of you who cannot shake response to stress and off the coffee habit, take 1 or 2 caffeine produces that capsules of Tao In a Bottle togethsame response. Over- er with your coffee to off set the drinking of coffee can edginess of caffeine. The L-theacause stress-like symp- nine in Tao In a Bottle will produce toms, including nervous- a full alpha state in your mind. ness, palpitations, shakCoffee forces the body to release ing, insomnia, etc. energy that it might not have at the Chronic use of caffeine time. Build up your real energy can burn out the reserve and avoid exhaustion by taking vitality increasing Qi tonics. See page 11 for more information.

Do we have to evolve to having one thousand hands and multiple heads to be able to handle all the multitasking in the world?

Surviving and thriving in a multitasking world

Cant live without coffee?

16

We are living in an age when we are all so busy that multitasking has become the normal mode of functioning. Many of us simply dont have enough time in a day to do one thing at a time. Computers, cars and cell phones have catapulted us all into a super speed warp where we expect ourselves to accomplish super-human tasks on a daily basis. Even with our technological aids (or because of them), we are often disappointed at the end of the day that we did not get everything done. Some multitasking chores involve moving a number of projects along at one time, which requires planning, organizing, an adaptable personality and strong adrenals. Even our daily lives take a certain amount of multitasking genius and skill. Without the ability to multitask, most of us would be lost.

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888-55-TONIC

adrenals, meaning that it can cause the adrenal functions to become imbalanced and depleted. This can result in many physiological problems, including chronic fatigue, which in turn results in further craving for stimulants, including more caffeine, sugar and other stimulating drugs. None of this is good. And its a real problem for many people, even if they dont know it yet.

The Need to Focus

No matter how much energy you have, when it comes to being successful, its all about focus. The ability to focus on a subject without being distracted, and seeing a process, chore or project through to the end, is the key to growth and accomplishment. Mastery is built on the ability to focus. Though multitasking is an essential skill of living, it is inherMeditation and other forms of mental exercise are means of ently risky. A person with a strong mind can do several things at training our mind to focus and to avoid the pitfalls of distraction. once and can manage many projects and activities simultaneously. Science knows that the most focused state of mind is the alpha But multitasking drains mental and physical energy it drains our state. When the mind is in a superb state of Qi. If we continue multitasking when we are mental clarity, focus, alertness and relaxation, mentally and/or physically drained, we start the brain produces brain waves called alpha making mistakes, having accidents and loswaves. ing control. This is a primary reason why we Prior to any challenging situation, When you achieve this alpha state, are attracted to, and need, tonic herbs. take 1-2 capsules of Tao In a Bottle your mind becomes capable of focusing on Multitasking also creates bad habits. It half an hour in advance. Tao In a whatever you are doing without being discan make us shallow. Because the multitaskBottle enhances mental focus in a tracted. The ability to achieve this state of ing seems so essential, we feel like were mind can be achieved through rigorous mental very noticeable and reliable way. It doing our job. But in fact, this habit of multraining techniques, including meditation, titasking all the time prevents us from taking has also been proven to reduce yoga and many other methods. But in this stress and anxiety without causing our time and focusing on important matters world, even meditators and yogis need some and seeing things through to the end. To do drowsiness. And it works within good natural help in maintaining this state of something great, it is essential that we dig in, 30 minutes. Try this before impormind for more than just short stints. Those go deep and focus. tant business meetings, school who dont spend so much time training their tests, performances, games or any minds need help even more. other mentally demanding situation. The alpha state of mind can be achieved by taking Tao In a Bottle, a Dragon Tonic herbs efficiently and safely Herbs product made from adaptogenic herbs and an amino acid replenish this energy that we are using to manage our lives and our from green tea. Two capsules of Tao In a Bottle reliably causes the affairs. They aid the body in producing real energy. Unlike coffee, brain to achieve this remarkable state of mind. they do not produce false energy that ultimately drains the body The comment we most often hear from people who use Tao In even more. They work both in the short and long term. They not a Bottle is that they feel extraordinarily present. They can focus only replenish what we use up, but tonic herbs can build us up in a

In spite of the perception that what we need is higher octane energy, speeding up our mind and releasing physical energy so that we can get numerous tasks accomplished, successful people know that the ability to focus on a situation or project is the true secret of success. The truly important things in life require us to concentrate on them. Be it shooting a basketball during a playoff game, having a critical talk with our teenage son or daughter, or negotiating a business deal, we will perform significantly better and have a much better result if we can focus on what we are doing, in the here and now, and bring all of our talent and wisdom to bare on the situation. If we cannot concentrate when we need to, we cannot achieve great things. That is why so much emphasis is placed on concentration in the spiritual teachings such as Zen and Yoga. The ability to concentrate is like magic when it comes to succeeding in this modern world. To succeed we must develop real mental strength. Mental strength lies in the ability to successfully move between a multitasking state of mind to a focused state of mind at will.

way that we are very much ahead of the game. We can build reserves that sustain us even during difficult times. When we stay ahead of the game, we age more slowly and enjoy life much more. A number of adaptogenic herbs help improve both physical and mental energy, and in some cases the results are quick, and they are definitely cumulative. Several tonic herbs are particularly wonderful in this regard: Asian and American Ginseng, Tibetan Rhodiola, Siberian Ginseng, Schizandra, Polyrhachis Ant, and Cordyceps come to mind. When you take these herbs (if they are high quality), you feel the energy within minutes. If you take a combination of them, you are likely to feel a wonderful sense of real energy that will allow you to do whatever you wish. And none of them have the deleterious effects of excessive caffeine.

Adaptogenic Formulations Provide the Energy We Need

Herbal formulations that include the herbs just described and other similar tonic herbs can have a profound influence on our energy, productivity and endurance. These adaptogenic formulas help us cope with stress, and help us move forward with much less effort.

In the End, Its All About Focus

Multitasking is Risky

Get in the Zone.

The Energy We Need

17

on the project or activity of the moment. Tao In a Bottle seems to help shut off the chatter, the extraneous thinking about unimportant and/or unrelated things while were trying to concentrate. Therefore, people feel they get much more accomplished in a shorter time, and all without the tension and stress they would normally feel, especially in this extreme multitasking age. Tao In a Bottle is the perfect mental tonic. It helps you to relax, but unlike other anti-stress agents like kava and valerian root, does not make people drowsy. To the contrary, its greatest feature is that it promotes mental focus and clarity. And, it is completely safe and devoid of side effects. The tonic herbs, which include Tibetan Rhodiola, Ginseng, Reishi and Siberian Ginseng, are safe tonics that may be consumed daily. L-Theanine, the amino acid from green tea, has been studied in major institutions throughout Japan for over 40 years and has been proven to be so safe that the Japanese use it in ice cream and candy as a food additive. We have found that people who really want to improve their mental focus in order to achieve more and/or to enhance progress in their growth to supreme wisdom, do extraordinarily well by consuming the following program of herbal products:

Practice deep breathing whenever you are getting anxious or scattered Through breathing we can master the emotions

Putting It All Together

If you want to step up to a higher mental level, to accomplish more with less stress this herbal program is the herbal aid of your life. Speed isnt the answer. Focus with inner power thats the way to go. The ability to move between an alert, energetic, nonstressed multitasking state of mind to a focused state of mind, at will, will then be a natural result.

1. An adaptogenic formulation such as Adaptogen Energizer or Super Adaptogen. These formulations provide the deep, enduring energy to sustain our multitasking life. 2. Either Diamond Mind (capsules or tincture) or Tibetan Magic (elixir). These Rhodiola-based products provide extraordinary mental energy, clarity and endurance. Rhodiola-based formulas are used throughout the world to improve concentration, alertness and an optimistic state of mind. 3. Tao in a Bottle. This remarkable product enhances mental focus in a very noticeable, reliable and pleasurable way. It has also been proven to reduce stress and anxiety without causing drowsiness. 4. Optional a ginseng product (Heaven Drops, Earth Drops, 500 Ginsengs, Ginseng Sublime, Active Ginseng Capsules, or Siberian Ginseng Drops). These extraordinary ginseng products are all made from the finest ginseng in the world. They promote energy on all levels and are famous around the world for their ability to enhance mental energy, creativity and mental endurance.

There is a deep connection between breathing and one's emotional state. The masters of every tradition in the Orient have always taught that through breath control we can master our emotions, the mastery of which is basic to our health and happiness. However, if we have not developed the power to control our breathing, we will remain at the mercy of our lower selves. When under stress or when immediate problems arise, our emotions instantly influence how we breathe. When we are angry, our breathing becomes rough. When we are worried or depressed, our breathing becomes shallow. When we are fearful, our breath becomes frozen. When we are in disagreement, we take short breaths. When we are frightened or surprised the power of the breath goes into our inhalation. Indeed, the emotions and breathing are one. The art of maintaining one's composure under stress, then, is accomplished through the practice of controlled deep breathing. Even when we become overwhelmed by anger or fear, or become depressed and sad, if the breathing is kept calm and long, then even the most powerful emotion will subside. It is for this reason that the meditative and yogic techniques of the East all train the student of life the art of deep breathing. By practicing proper breathing, habits are formed which will be retained in emergencies. The emotions can be controlled and the higher self, Shen, will be in charge. All forms of yogic, Taoist, and Zen breathing, etc. are methods of training the breath so that the practitioner can maintain his or her tranquility even under great adversity, as well as through the routine difficulties of daily life. Under controlled conditions, the practitioner can achieve elevated states of awareness and consciousness that lead to an attunement with the Unnamable.

ADAPTOGEN ENERGIZER Code 185........................................................................$32 SUPER ADAPTOGEN Code 186........................................................................$23 DIAMOND MIND Capsule: Code 160........$26 Tinture: Code 023........$32

TIBETAN MAGIC (5 pouches, 20 servings) Code 701........................................................................$30 TAO IN A BOTTLE (60 capsules, 1 month supply) Code 161........................................................................$29 For more information on our Ginseng products, please refer to page 10. Buy More Save More Discount Program. See back cover for details.

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SEND YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY A DRAGON HERBS GIFT BOX, VALUED AT OVER $100!
Dragon Herbs would like to thank you for being a loyal customer and supporting our cause to bring radiant health to those persons who want to improve their well-being. To help expand our effort, we have developed the exciting Dragon Herbs Gift Box program. It will give you a chance to share the wonderful benefits of Chinese tonic herbalism with your friends and family. It will also provide you with the opportunity to earn valuable gift certificates. Heres how it works send us the names and addresses of friends and family you believe would enjoy our wonderful products. We will send them a Dragon Herbs Gift Box, valued at over $100.00! Due to the value of the Gift Box, we must limit the number of referrals to two for each customer. If you would like to send Gift Boxes to more than two persons, give us a call and we will give you special Gift Box referral authorization. You must include your Dragon Herbs account number to qualify for the Gift Box program. When one of your referrals redeems their Gift Certificate, we will send you a $10.00 Dragon Herbs Gift Certificate good towards the purchase of Dragon Herbs products. The good news is that there is no minimum purchase requirement on your Gift Certificate. Its that simple.

Earn a $10.00 Gift Certificate for every new customer you refer to Dragon Herbs

Good fo r free herone consulta bal tion

TERMS A ND CONDITIO NS: You can submit your referrals through the mail, telephone or e-mail. Mail all referral forms to: Dragon Herbs, Gift Box Program, 315 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401. To submit your referrals by telephone call 310-917-2288 or 888-55TONIC and ask for customer service. Or, you can submit your referrals by e-mailing information to giftbox@dragonherbs.com. Make sure you include all of the information requested on the referral form. The Dragon Herbs Gift Certificates included in the Dragon Herbs Gift Box are good towards a minimum purchase of $50.00 of Dragon Herbs products. To qualify for the Dragon Herbs Gift Box program, you must be an existing Dragon Herbs customer. For you to receive credit for a new customer referral, the referral must redeem their Dragon Herbs Gift Certificate. You will be awarded one $10.00 Dragon Herbs Gift Certificate for each referral who redeems their Dragon Herbs Gift Certificate. The Dragon Herbs Gift Certificate awarded to you for each new customer referral has no minimum purchase requirement. All referrals must be new customers and cannot have shopped at Dragon Herbs in the past two years. Each Dragon Herbs Gift Certificate awarded to you will be mailed to you at the address submitted within four weeks after the date the new customer referral redeems their Dragon Herbs Gift Certificate. The Dragon Herbs Gift Box program is limited to the United States. No international referrals are allowed. Dragon Herbs Gift Certificates cannot be redeemed for cash. The Gift Box program cannot be combined with any other offers. All Dragon Herbs Gift Certificates are nontransferable. Dragon Herbs reserves the right to cancel the Gift Box promotion at any time without notice. 2003 Dragon Herbs. All rights reserved.

Please send a Dragon Herbs Gift Box to my friends and family listed below.
PRINT NAME

Gift Box Referral Form

PLUS FREE SHIPPING!

ADDRESS CITY PRINT NAME STATE

APT. ZIP

You have three options for submitting friends and family to the Gift Box program: Mail: Mail this referral form to Dragon Herbs, 315 Wilshire Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90401

TO:

ADDRESS CITY PRINT NAME ADDRESS CITY STATE STATE

APT. ZIP

Call: Call Dragon Herbs customer service at 310-9172288 or 888-55-TONIC

TO:

FROM:

TELEPHONE NUMBER APT. ZIP

E-mail: E-mail Dragon Herbs at giftbox@dragonherbs.com Make sure you provide all the required information and please print all information clearly.

DT Dragon Time
DT Ron, what is Tonic Alchemy? Well, Tonic Alchemy is the most complete superfood blend in the world. It contains seventy-one extraordinary ingredients from all around the world. These superfoods provide an astounding range of vitamins, minerals, immune-boosting phytochemicals, antioxidants, enzymes, probiotics and alkalizing agents that most people simply dont get in their daily diets. Its a green food, so it provides an abundance of chlorophyll, and therefore it has blood building and purifying actions in the body. Its an easily dissolvable powder that most people mix with soy milk, rice milk, juice or other nutritious liquid. Some people even like it with plain water. Because it tastes so good, it is easy to consume every day. DT What led you to create Tonic Alchemy? oping a blend for myself. I wanted to include all of the amazing super foods that I had learned about. I didnt feel like consuming them separately, so I started mixing them. I wanted to be able to mix the blend with a liquid and drink it daily kind of for convenience. Ultimately, I came up with a complete blend and I started sharing it with my family, friends and employees. Eventually, it became impossible not to turn it into a product everybody was asking for it. Well, as I was saying, I love these kinds of things. Over the past thirty years Ive heard about a lot of things and tried most of them. My main criteria were that they were natural, safe, not drugs, and tasted good enough that I could get them down. What usually drove me was the information I would hear about certain health benefits, especially regarding energy production, immune protection, detoxification and antioxidant activity. Of course, I analyzed these things from both scientific and traditional Asian perspectives. I like to try to figure out if things are Yin or Yang, and if they tonify Jing, Qi or Shen. I created Tonic Alchemy by taking the best ingredients I had ever come across and blending them in a way that balances Yin and Yang and tonifies Jing, Qi and Shen. I was also determined to get a fermented component into the powder so that I was guaranteed of a healthy intestinal tract. Now that were producing this product, I have my staff and sources find the highest quality ingredients available in the world. We go to extraordinary measures to obtain some of the ingredients from the sources we consider the best. DT How did you select the various ingredients?

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Ive been interested in nutrition for my entire adult life. My roots were in macrobiotics and vegetarianism, though now I eat fish and some fowl. Back in 1969 I started a natural foods co-op in Ann Arbor Michigan, and that co-op eventually became a company called Eden Organic Foods, which is now a pretty famous company. For many years I have included certain super foods in my diet, almost on a daily basis. Things like chlorella, spirulina and wheat grass have always appealed to me. I also have a big thing for seaweeds all kinds of seaweeds. I think they provide something that other foods dont. These superfoods are very similar to the tonic herbs that I consider essential nutrients because of their supportive and protective actions in the body. Over the years, because of my work and exposure to such things, I gained a lot of knowledge about these super foods. Several years ago I became interested in devel-

DT What distinguishes Tonic Alchemy from other green foods?

It has seventy-one ingredients, including a full range of green grasses, sprouted seeds, organic garden vegetable juices, seaweeds, various algae such as chlorella and spirulina, and antioxidant fruits. But what distinguishes this product from the rest is the fact that it contains a fermented component. Some of the green grasses are fermented with probiotics like lactobacillus bulgaricus. These probiotics easily colonize our intestinal tract and radically improve general health. Another distinguishing characteristic of Tonic Alchemy is the large tonic herbal component. And to some people actually, a lot of people the most pleasant thing that distinguishes this product from every other green drink on the market is that it tastes really good. Everybody is surprised at how good it tastes, and that makes it easy to consume on a long-term basis. A lot of people drink it for pleasure as much as for nutrition. DT Why do you call it a Supertonic Superfood?

contains a fantastic newcomer in the superfood world, Hydrilla. Hydrilla is an algae, similar to chlorella and spirulina. However, it is the most potent superfood in the world from a nutritional point of view. It is far more dense than either chlorella or spirulina. It is a very rich vegetarian source of calcium and many other vitamins and minerals. Its an amazing superfood. Tonic Alchemy contains enzymatically pre-digested pearl powder made from real pearls. This pearl powder is as rich a source of calcium as coral calcium but has many features that make it a much better product. Pearl is the premier beauty herb of the Orient and is an extremely potent antioxidant. Tonic Alchemy contains a seaweed called Laminaria japonica. This seaweed contains certain phytochemicals that safely rid the body of heavy metals such as lead, cadmium and mercury. It also has been proven to help eliminate radioactive material from the body. Laminaria was used by the Russians for the victims of the Chernobyl accident with wonderful success. Tonic Alchemy contains seventy-one amazing ingredients, and each one has its own remarkable story. The first rule of Chinese health care is do no harm. This is absolutely true I couldnt agree more. But I have another first rule. I call it Rons first rule of tonic herbalism, and that first rule is compliance if a person doesnt take their herbs, they wont do that person any good. Tonic herbs and superfoods are taken over a long period of time actually a lifetime because, in essence, they are food. It is therefore essential that something like Tonic Alchemy tastes good enough that people will take it without wincing. I know as a fact that if Tonic Alchemy tasted bad, even I wouldnt take it for long. Therefore, when I developed it, I made sure that it tasted good. Amazingly, I didnt have to work very hard at it. From the beginning, even in its early stages, it tasted naturally mild and sweet. Right from the beginning I learned to mix sweet fruits and herbs with the bitter and pungent greens. In the end, we added a little Sweetfruit* and Stevia to make it pleasant for everyone. Nobody ever complains about it being too sweet, but we get universal credit for making it taste really good. The nutritional aspect of Tonic Alchemy makes people want to drink it, but the fact that it tastes so good actually makes people enjoy taking it every day. DT What are some of the benefits of using this Superfood formula? DT Why does it taste so good?

DT Can you tell us a little about a couple of the novel major ingredients?

Well, you know me I think that the tonic herbs are dietary essentials. I know that a lot of people who dont take herbs will take this product. So every serving of Tonic Alchemy contains almost two full capsules of the greatest tonic herbs on earth. These super tonics can Get a have a very profound influence on free sample a persons health. They are safe to with your take on a daily basis and taste good too. The formula contains things next order. like lycium fruit, reishi mushroom. ashwaganda, pearl powder, Tibetan rhodiola and other supertonic herbs. Tonic Alchemy clearly is a superfood, by every definition. It is extraordinarily nutrient dense and contains phytochemicals that have amazing benefits on human health. The tonic herbs are clearly super foods as well, though they are generally called tonic herbs. In ancient China, the tonic herbs were called the superior herbs. Since this product contains more tonic herbs than any other superfood product I have ever seen, I call it a supertonic superfood because it is.

22

Tonic Alchemy contains a number of novel ingredients, perhaps too many to go into here. But a couple of them might serve as an example. Tonic Alchemy contains Ashitaba, an absolutely amazing herbvegetable that grows in Okinawa. It has a huge reputation in the Orient as an anti-aging superfood. It is an extremely potent and healthful antioxidant that also stimulates our own body to produce SOD, our own natural antioxidant. It also stimulates nerve growth factor, which helps to protect our nervous system. Tonic Alchemy

There are too many benefits to discuss in this short amount of time, but a couple of features stand out. Tonic Alchemy provides superior nutrition. The range of young, green grasses, vegetables, fruits, algae, sprouts, and so on, is unsurpassed in any product in the world.

www.dragonherbs.com

888-55-TONIC

A person consuming this product wont miss out on any nutrient, and body functions will therefore be allowed to perform at optimum levels. This product is an extraordinary antioxidant. If a person were to consume this product on a consistent basis, their body would be significantly and continuously cleansed of dangerous free radicals that cause aging, cancer, heart disease and many other diseases. Of course, Im not saying that this product can treat, cure, prevent or even mitigate any disease, but antioxidants are crucial for our long term health. By consuming this product you are nurturing a healthy bacterial colony in your intestines with a fresh supply of probiotics on a daily basis. This can have profound benefits in the body. The chlorophyll provided by Tonic Alchemy is purifying and a very important blood tonic. I guess the overall benefits you get by taking Tonic Alchemy are too profound and numerous to describe in a short amount of time, but I know that everybody who drinks a Tonic Alchemy shake feels an increase in their energy and state of wellbeing. I hear that from our customers every day. And I think that as people use it through the winter months, they will find that they have stronger immunity and resistance to common infections. All of the ingredients have been clearly demonstrated to be safe and free of serious side effects. This is a very, very safe product. Everybody should take Tonic Alchemy. This is superfood. Its good for kids, adults and the elderly. Its good for men and women it doesnt matter. It also doesnt matter if a person is sick or healthy we all need good nutrition on a continuous basis. This is simply the healthiest nutritional product I can imagine, and I cant see any reason why everyone shouldnt take this amazing product every day. This has all made me thirsty Im going to make myself a Tonic Alchemy shake right now. Thank you. *Sweetfruit is a zero calorie natural sweetener made from a Chinese tonic herb. Available as a tincture. Code 011..........................$10 DT Who can, or should, use this product? DT Are there any side effects to be expected?

While powerful chemical cleaners can clean our house spotless, their residue and vapor can also intoxicate us in the long run. Is there a cleaning solution that offers spotlessness without sacrificing safety and long-term health?

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Streak free Achieve that streak free look with water alone. Highly Up to 300durable washes.

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Rons first rule of tonic herbalism Compliance if a person doesnt take his/her herbs, they wont do him/her any good.

TONIC ALCHEMY 30 day supply, 9.45 oz. (270 grams) CODE 686...................................................$44.95
Buy More Save More Discount Program. See back cover for details.

*You may use your favorite natural cleaner for super performance.

We highly recommend buying 2 cloths at a time so you can clean with a damp cloth and wipe dry with a dry cloth. This greatly enhances the streak free result. Perfect for TV screens, computer monitors and other chemical sensitive surfaces.

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TM

315 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90401 888-55-TONIC www.dragonherbs.com

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID WMS

Now through November 15, 2003, Dragon Herbs is offering a Buy More Save More discount program. For select products mentioned in this newsletter (look for this symbol ) you have the opportunity to enjoy three different levels of discounts when you make a quantity purchase of the same product. The more you purchase, the higher the discount, the more you save.

The Buy More Save More Discount Program*

Heres how it works

Buy 2 units

Buy 3 units

Buy 4 or more

15% off

20% off

25% off

*Discount will automatically apply when your order of a select product reaches specified quantity. This offer can not be combined with other offers. This discount program is not be valid after November 15, 2003 nor is it applicable to third party merchandise. The Buy More Save More program is only available to retail customers. The Buy More Save More discounts apply to purchases made of the same product at the same time, no combination of different products is allowed. Each select product is designated by this symbol

Look for the Buy More Save More symbol ( ) and begin saving now!

This drink increases oxygen supplies in the blood, which directly affects both physical and mental energy. It lifts the spirit, calms the nerves, clears the senses and generally lifts life-experience to another level. Flavored with wild cherry juice (a powerful antioxidant,) this delicious drink undoubtedly takes functional drinks to a new height. A wonderful lift for brainy people as well as athletic folks and everybody in between.

Tibet, with its ultra high altitude, has 30-40% less oxygen than at sea level. The main ingredient in Tibetan Magic, Rhodiola Sacra, comes from above the snow line of the Tibetan Plateau. It has been used by the Tibetans for centuries to enhance their oxygen intake ability.