Polygala is one of the truly extraordinary tonic herbs in the entire Asian tonic herbal system. This herb first attained wide use in Daoist circles because it was believed to have powerful mind and spirit-developing power. In fact, Polygala root was believed to be an empowering substance in the class with wild Ginseng and Ganoderma in this regard. This root is traditionally used as a Spirit tonic to relax the mind, calm the emotions and to aid in the sleep process. However, it does not relax the mind in entirely the same manner as many Spirit Stabilizing herbs.

Instead, many people claim that it enhances dreaming and aids in creative thinking. And it not only aids creative thinking, but the ability to manifest our ideas. In fact, the ancient name for this herb is the "Will Strengthener." The herb is believed to have the ability to strengthen that part of the psyche which we call the "Will."

These days, Polygala may be used to strengthen the Will of the spiritual seeker, or it may be used to strengthen the Will of the more earth-bound. It is used in formulations to build enough will power to overcome obstacles and to achieve greater heights. For example, it can be used a the main ingredient in formulas to help stop smoking, or even to break other habits, such as drug abuse, overeating, or compulsive behavior of any sort. Polygala has the unique power to provide the energy (the "power") to our Will, so that we can overcome the obstacles that block us from becoming all that we can become. And it not only helps us break old, bad habits. It also helps strengthen our will to do new things, to achieve new heights. It strengthens our Will so that we can start to work on a new project, to start exercising, to start and continue whatever we need to do to grow, to become a great human being. That is the magic of Polygala, the "Will Strengthener."