Q. Dear Terry, “I am really interested in learning about herbs and other natural things that can increase longevity. I hope to not only live a long life, but also be as healthy as possible. I’m in my forties and want to do my best to get started now. What do you suggest?” – Ada S., Seattle, WA

A. Dear Ada, There are many nutrients and ingredients that come to mind when thinking about longevity. First and foremost, I believe a solid foundation with a multivitamin and mineral foundation is necessary. I believe a multivitamin and mineral formula should be taken several times per day and include vitamins and minerals in their most absorbable and active forms.

There are also several important botanicals that come to mind. The first may be new to you and is called Greek mountain tea (Sideritis scardica). This herb has been a prized beverage in the mountainous regions of the Mediterranean for generations and was a favorite of Hippocrates in ancient times. Greek mountain tea has an invigorating effect on the mind and body, so it’s perfect for mental and physical endurance. Clinical research has found it helps support mental health (especially while under stress or pressure), reduces anxiety, and improves circulation to a key area of the brain involved in memory and learning. In addition to its cognitive benefits, Greek mountain tea helps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, inhibit various types of cancer, promotes detoxification, and many more activities that are associated with healthy aging and longevity.

I recommend 500 mg of Greek mountain tea once or twice per day. For more of the cognitive benefits, I recommend 450 mg of Greek mountain tea combined with 200 mg of bacopa (a well-known herb for supporting cognitive function).
Other botanicals I would consider must-haves for longevity include curcumin and French grape seed extract. Since cancer and heart disease are the top two causes of death in adults, these botanicals are key in addressing the inflammation and oxidative changes that set the stage for developing these conditions. I prefer a clinically studied curcumin that is enhanced with turmeric essential oil. I recommend 750 mg of curcumin per day. I recommend a tannin-free, French grape seed extract that is standardized only to provide oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) that are small enough to be absorbed, with a high level of polyphenols. I recommend 400 mg of grape seed extract per day.

It’s hard to talk about aging without mentioning glutathione, since the aging process depletes us of this valuable antioxidant. Glutathione is a compound that we make naturally and is one of the most important antioxidants we have. I recommend taking 300 mg per day of the reduced, active form of glutathione that is orally absorbed and has been stabilized in a patented process with protective antioxidants.

Lastly, I feel that polyphenols are one of the best nutrients for a healthy aging process. I recommend 500 mg of standardized polyphenols from propolis, apples, green tea, curcumin and OPCs daily.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally