Codonopsis root - Latin Name: (Codonopsis pilosula)

Herbal Anecdote: Codonopsis is known as the "poor man's ginseng."

Traditional Uses: In ancient China, codonopsis was used along with ginseng to create a tonic that helped replenish one's qi. In more modern times, it is often used to strengthen the immune system, invigorate the spleen, and treat a variety of disorders, including high blood pressure, lack of appetite, diabetes, memory loss and insomnia. Some researchers theorize that codonopsis may benefit patients undergoing AIDS treatment or chemotherapy, as it reduces the side-effects of toxic drugs by increasing red and white blood cell counts.