The Ancient Wisdom of the Chinese Tonic Herbs
By Ron Teeguarden
First published 1998 · Warner Books
A foundational guide to the philosophy and practical use of Chinese tonic herbs, The Ancient Wisdom of the Chinese Tonic Herbs introduces readers to the classical principles of Traditional Chinese herbalism in clear, accessible language.
Drawing on decades of study and experience, Ron Teeguarden explains the core concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including:
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Yin and Yang
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The Three Treasures: Jing, Qi (Chi) and Shen
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The Five Elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water
The book then explores the traditional classification of tonic herbs - superior, supportive and inferior - and provides insight into how herbs are combined and selected within classical systems of use.
What This Book Covers
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The philosophy behind Chinese tonic herbalism
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How tonic herbs are traditionally categorised
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Classical herbal combinations
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The historical use of tonic teas, foods and preparations
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The cultural roots of radiant health practices in China
The second half of the book discusses traditional herbal formulations and how different tonic herbs have been used historically within Chinese herbal systems.
Academic Foreword
The foreword is written by respected scholars from leading Chinese institutions, including professors from the Institute of Chinese Materia Medica and China Pharmaceutical University. They describe the book as an accessible bridge between classical Chinese health philosophy and Western readers seeking to understand these traditions.
Selected Praise
“Simple, easy-to-understand language… a practical guide to enlivening our inner healer.”
— David Simon
“Expands our health options… makes foreign ideas easy to grasp and fun to learn.”
— Harriet Beinfield
“A fantastic resource… for anyone who wants to live life to the fullest.”
— Danny Glover
About the Author
Ron Teeguarden is a Western herbalist known for introducing Chinese tonic herbal traditions to modern audiences. In 1994, he was awarded the title “Master Herbalist” by professors of Chinese Materia Medica.
Product Details
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Paperback
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First published 1998
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Publisher: Warner Books
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English language
The Ancient Wisdom of the Chinese Tonic Herbs is ideal for readers interested in traditional Chinese herbal philosophy, tonic herbal systems and the cultural foundations of radiant health practices.