The Taoists stated that there are three intrinsic elements that make up the human organism. These elements are considered precious substances and if anyone strives to have a long and healthy life it is necessary to fortify, cultivate, and conserve the Three Treasures.

Jing

The first treasure is called Jing, or essence. Jing is both the stuff we are made of and our deep reserves of energy that hold us together and allow us to function. From a Western standpoint, we can look at Jing as our genetics, as well as our endocrine (hormonal) system. Healthy Jing is responsible for a strong immune system, memory, hearing, bone and joint integrity, level of energy, digestion, kidney and adrenal function, fertility, sexual vitality, as well as healthy skin, hair, and nails. As we age we naturally lose Jing. However, periods in our lives when we experience either normal or excessive stress (chronic stress is most damaging), prolonged disease, drug or alcohol abuse, overwork, childbirth, and excessive sexual activity all deplete the Jing considerably. These periods of excessive stress are thought of as leaks of Jing. Because Jing is both precious and finite, it is the goal of tonic herbalism to prevent these leaks.

The Taoists not only used the tonics to plug up any leaks, they also utilized them in restoring and replenishing their Jing. Over time, our glands naturally begin to shrink and hormones slowly dry out. Many studies have shown that stress, at either a normal or excessive level, that causes us to feel noticeably depleted speeds up this process more rapidly. Tonics provide the necessary boost to the endocrine system that nurtures one back to a more vibrant state of health.

More specifically, Jing tonics exist as the most youth promoting, anti-aging substances in the entire Chinese herbal system. Their use results in beautiful skin, stronger sexual function, and excellent memory. Anyone looking to find a fountain of youth and vitality would be wise to add an appropriate Jing tonic to his or her herbal program.

Qi

All of nature and of life is energy taking form. The Taoists uncovered this truth in their practice of deep meditation, while Einstein in his research proved that energy and matter are two different forms of the same thing. His formula E=MC2 showed that matter can be turned into energy and energy into matter. The human body requires Qi to accomplish this feat. Qi extracts oxygen from the air, and nutrients from our food, powering our living cells; without it we cannot grow or function properly.

A lack of Qi results in us feeling physically tired, sluggish, and sickly; also our ability to concentrate and focus is diminished. Emotionally, a deficiency of Qi makes us feel drained and depressed. Having strong Qi creates an all important state of adaptability, which is directly related to our stress handling capabilities. Our level of adaptability reflects how well we can overcome stress. A possible example is our ability to adapt to the internal stress brought about by picking up germs on the subway, airplane or the external stress of a sudden drop in temperature. If our bodies don't have the adaptive energy to manage internal and external stresses in the correct amount of time the result could be a weakened immune system and possible illness.

Qi tonics build up our adaptability and assist the body in producing and circulating the protective and nutritive Qi, which leads to a strong immune system, good blood flow and cardiovascular health, strong respiratory function, vitality, clear thinking and enhanced concentration, toned muscles, and excellent metabolism. With matter being composed of energy, it becomes essential to consume energy promoting tonics in order to live a long life full of vitality.

Shen

Shen is the third treasure and can be translated as Spirit. It is the light behind the eyes that brings with it the virtuous qualities of human nature such as the ability to love, give, laugh and smile. A person with strong Shen is at peace and content with life. Shen tonics ground the central nervous system easing mental and emotional anxiety and nervousness. Grounding creates the possibility for deep reflection and relaxation allowing us the space to make choices that lead in a positive direction towards realizing our goals.

Go Back