Turns out it is not that easy to define. Generally, it is thought of as a preparation that is more like food in composition and acts generally and slowly to build up some tissue or organ, rather than having a sharp medicinal activity that changes functions within the organism. The whole herb is used, not the “active constituents.” English-speaking herbalists originally used the word "tonic" to describe astringents, because they give "tone" to tissues. Today, however, the word is more commonly used to describe a remedy that can be safely given to most people at relatively large doses to maintain or improve health. This can include bitter, iron, blood, qi, yin, and yang tonics, as well as tonics for specific systems - brain, immune, spleen, liver, kidneys, and heart. Many of these come to us from traditional Chinese medicine; Taoist medicine is largely a tonic-based approach based on building up the “precious substances” of the body. We will discuss the difference between tonics and adaptogens and touch on questions of pharmacology, which are not prominent in this category. We will explore several such remedies, including Rehmannia and Astragalus (sweet tonics), Gotu kola (brain tonic) and, for contrast, Gentian (bitter tonic) and how they help the body navigate stress.
Seán Pádraig O'Donoghue is an herbalist specializing in mental, emotional, and spiritual health and an initiated priest in two traditions. He has taught both phytochemistry and herbal energetics to herbalists, nutritionists, and acupuncturists. He is joined by renowned herbalist and author Matthew Wood, who has played a central role in the revival and development of Traditional Western Herbalism. Learn more about Seán and our amazing MWIH faculty.
