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There was a statistically significant decrease in heart rate. The mean before-treatment value (control) was 147 bpm, compared to 137 bpm after administration of ciwujia.
Ciwujia appears to be a safe herb for improving performance. The studies indicate that it produces a carbohydrate-sparing action during low- and high-intensity exercise. For individuals who work out on a regular basis, ciwujia appears to offer a number of significant benefits. It facilitates the utilization of fat as a source of fuel during exercise, enabling individuals to delay the onset of lactic acid induced fatigue.
MetaflexTM and 2nd WindarxTM
The athletic community, from professional trainers to the weekend warrior, has become aware of the consequences of lactic acid build-up in their muscles during strenuous exercise. Trainers are analyzing blood lactate levels to evaluate conditioning and design optimal training regimens.
GNC'S METAFLEXTM and 2ND WINDARXTM (referred to herein as ARX) have been developed by Botanica Laboratories International as an adjunct to training or exercise regimens to improve the physical capacity of athletes at diverse performance levels. METAFLEX is a branded version of ARX.
These products were formulated with the idea of improving energy metabolism and lactate clearance in the muscle in support of athletically active individuals. The ingredients in both products include two types of standardized ginsengs (Eleutherococcus and Jilin ginseng) and three different fungi fermentations (cordyceps, gandoerma and flammulina). The ingredients represent an approach that combines energy enhancing herbs with herbs that reduce the congestion of fluids in conditions such as edema or lymph stasis.
In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, ARX was evaluated for its effect on lactate clearance after maximal exercise. Thirty male subjects age 18-20 were randomly placed into one placebo group and two dosage groups taking 500 mg and 1,000 mg per day respectively of ARX. The study used a computerized treadmill programmed for increasing levels of difficulty. Blood lactate measurements were taken before exercise, at V02 max and 15 minutes after stopping exercise. Exercise challenge tests were performed at the begin-

 
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