Q- Can tonic herbs or formulas be inappropriate?

A- Another way to think about this is, are there times when certain herbs should be avoided? Yes, during the initial stages of a cold or flu. Tonic herbs strengthen the body, and they can also make the cold or flu worse. Instead, use specific cold-and-flu herbal formulas. Then, go back to the tonic formula when you are well. 

For example, we would recommend avoiding NRG at this time, as it is primarily tonic herbs.

Q- What are tonic herbs?

A- Tonic herbs are herbs that nourish the body over time. We used to hear about people using medicinal tonics more often in the "old days," but they are making a comeback in modern times. Times of illness are considered acute situations; tonics are designed to support people outside of these acute moments. Herbal tonics may be blended for overall wellness, to target a specific organ, or to support and manage a chronic condition. 

Many tonic herbs also fall under the classification of adaptogenic herbs. You will often find these two words used interchangeably. Tonic most often refers to a specific blend of herbs, though "tonic herb" itself is also an herbal classification. When studying herbs, any herb that is said to "tonify" is a tonic herb.

Nutritive herbs are also tonics. These are herbs that work best when taken over longer periods of time and used primarily for their vitamin and mineral content. 

Some examples of tonic herbs are- 

• Ashwaghanda
• Astragaulus
• Dandelion root
• Ginsing
• Holy basil
• Maca
• Licorice root
• Nettle
• Skullcap
• Reishi mushroom

Q- But wait, I thought tonics should be avoided during acute situations; several of these are used for acutes as well? I'm confused!

A- Herbs are extremely versatile. And our bodies are extremely wise. These herbs, when used long-term, act to strengthen and tonify. When used short-term, they can provide support and relief in acute situations. The other herbs used alongside them also provide synergistic benefits that help the body use them most effectively. 

Q- What tonics does TriLight sell?

A- The following products would fall under the classification of tonics and work best when used over a longer period of time-

• ADHD - Focus and Calm Support
  • An Ayurvedic formula that has been used for decades.
  • The included herbs may provide short-term support, but will work better over a long period of time. 
• ALRG - Allergy Support
  • A Traditional Chinese Medicine blend.
  • Can be used for up to one month and is most effective when started before seasonal changes hit a peak. 
• B-Dry - Bedwetting and Incontinence Support
  
  • As with many tonics, results are not often seen until the herbs have been used for a longer period. 
• B-Fruitful - Fertility Support
  • Most healthcare providers recommend using this for at least one menstrual cycle, though they may also recommend using it for much longer.
  • Should be weaned off within 3-5 days of a positive pregnancy test.
• CirculaTone - Circulation Support, Pregnancy-friendly
  
  • Similar to B-DRY, results will rarely be seen right away. Continued tonic-style use yields the best results. 
• Female Formula - Menstrual Cramp and Cycle Support
  • A Cherokee Herbal Medicine Formula 
  • While some benefits may be found with acute use during cramping, it is best to take this in small doses during the month & then in larger doses at the start of the cycle. 
• GastroCare - Pregnancy-friendly digestion support
  • Artichoke leaf is traditionally used as an herbal bitter to support digestion. 
  • Can be used for short-term relief and as a tonic.
  • When used under the proper support of a trained practitioner, it may provide long-term benefits.
• Herbal Minerals
  • These are unique in that they can still be used during acute conditions for the nutrient benefits. (unless your healthcare provider says to discontinue use).
• The Immune System Builder Wellness Kit 
  • Contains several formulas designed to work synergistically in a tonic fashion to support overall immune health.
• LivCare - Liver and Skin Support
  • While blends traditionally used for cleanses are not always considered a tonic, this one is.
  • The included herbs have been used to enhance liver and gallbladder function. 
• Lung Tonic - Pregnancy Friendly Respiratory Support 
  • Most often used during acute respiratory illnesses, it can also have tonic uses.
  • Contains herbs traditionally used for chronic respiratory conditions. With practitioner support, it can be used as a tonic. 
• NRG - Caffeine & Sugar Free Energy Booster
  • Also popular for those trying to cut back on caffeine and/or sugar!
  • Can be used short-term, but the best long-term energy results are achieved with consistent use.
• NR Glow - Immune and Eczema Support
  • Another example of a blend that can be used short-term or long-term.
  • Contains herbs traditionally used to strengthen the immune system.
  • Customers found that an unexpected result of regular use of this blend was relief from eczema symptoms as well. 

Please consult your healthcare provider before using any tonic herbs. Especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. Your provider can help advise you on dosage, frequency, and length of use for tonic situations.