Someone once suggested on my facebook page that I should write a blog combining herbal medicine and Star Wars.
GEEK ALERT! (Although, if you read between the lines this post may also be useful for regular civilians just like us.)
So the proposed topic was this:
“Which three herbs would Jedi Knights use to grow, develop and manage the Force within?”
I imagine that the scenario would go like this. A Jedi Knight has come for a consultation with me at my clinic. He or she is in need of:
- increased physical energy (to keep up with extensive light saber dual training),
- good mental clarity (for maintaining peace and justice in the galaxy), and
- to be able to keep one’s cool in stressful dispute and battle-style scenarios involving moral and ethical dilemmas. And to definitely not give in to anger.
Sounds familiar to what we all need to prosper in a busy, modern life doesn’t it?
The herbs that immediately spring to mind for this patient are:
- Siberian ginseng – this herb is one of the physical endurance greats! One study showed that it could enhance endurance by 23% and that participants could tolerate a greater cardiac requirement during exercise when compared with placebo.
- Ginkgo biloba – the extract of the leaf of the gingko tree has been associated with improved cognitive function. Memory response times were improved in this study of middle aged women after taking ginkgo biloba in this study.
- Kava – when extracted in water, this herb is excellent for reducing stress and anxiety. Interestingly, a systematic review found that kava taken at regular doses also either improves cognition or at least has minimal negative effect. So, that means our Jedi is relaxed without compromising performance.
Of course, the actual herbs I would prescribe for the Jedi Knight would be based on their individual health history and may differ from the above. I’m sure that a Jedi Knight would also make use of acupuncture for the above treatment goals and to aid injury repair.
This post is for a bit of fun but don’t forget that herbs are still medicines. And they should be treated with the same respect as any other medicines in regards to safety and dosing. For best results, see a practitioner for an individualised herbal formula that bests suits your needs.
If you need a Star Wars related tasty treat now, here’s a recipe for darkside decadence: the gluten-free biscuit.
To book an appointment at the clinic or further information on Chinese Medicine contact Dr Sarah George (Acupuncture). Sarah is a practitioner of acupuncture (AHPRA registered), massage therapy and natural health.