Tonic Blend SP-28 contains a proprietary blend of Sarsaparilla, Eleuthero, Astragalus, Fo-ti, Gotu Kola and Saw Palmetto. This blend is formulated using the holistic principle that herbs properly combined are greater than the total of each herb separately. Each blend is created with a homeopathically prepared mineral formula designed to work with the herbs in this blend.

In Mexico, sarsaparilla was used by herbalists for rheumatism, cancer, skin diseases, and a host of other conditions. At the turn of the 20th century, there were reports of its use by herbalists for the treatment of leprosy. Sarsaparilla also has a tradition of use in various women’s health concerns and was rumored to have a progesterone-like effect.

Sarsaparilla contains steroidal saponins, such as sarsasapogenin, which may mimic the action of some human hormones. This property remains undocumented, however. Sarsaparilla also contains phytosterols, such as beta-sitosterol, which may contribute to the anti-inflammatory effect of this herb. Reports have shown anti-inflammatory and liver-protecting effects for this herb.

Eleuthero belongs to the Araliaceae family and is a distant relative of Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng). Also known commonly as touch-me-not and devil’s shrub, eleuthero has been most frequently nicknamed Siberian ginseng in this country. Eleuthero is native to the Taiga region of the Far East (southeastern part of Russia, northern China, Korea, and Japan). The root and the rhizomes (underground stem) are used medicinally.

Although not as popular as Asian ginseng, eleuthero use dates back 2,000 years, according to Chinese medicine records. Referred to as ci wu jia in Chinese medicine, it was used to prevent respiratory tract infections, colds and flu. It was also believed to provide energy and vitality. In Russia, eleuthero was originally used by people in the Siberian Taiga region to increase performance and quality of life and to decrease infections.

In more modern times, eleuthero has been used to increase stamina and endurance in Soviet Olympic athletes. Russian explorers, divers, sailors, and miners also used eleuthero to prevent stress-related illness. After the Chernobyl accident, many Russian and Ukrainian citizens were given eleuthero to counteract the effects of radiation.

Eleuthero is an “adaptogen” (an agent that helps the body adapt to stress). It is thought to help support adrenal gland function when the body is challenged by stress.