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Immune System Helpers Here are some herbal remedies that have been used as Immune System helpers throughout history. Scroll down to find your ailment. Click on 'Fact Sheet' for more information. Fatigue & Recovery Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous) Part used: Root History: Long used in Asia for energy & to combat infectious disease Science: Contains polysaccharides that stimulate the immune system Practitioners opinion: Excellent for those suffering from exhaustion or those exhausted by infectious disease Directions: Tincture (1:5, 45% alcohol): 5ml 3 times daily When we feel tired all the time, chances are we are run down. Our immune system has run out of steam and bacteria, virus, and fungi we encounter take advantage of our compromised state. Astragalus can be used to stimulate energy and immune function all at the same time. It is especially good for the person having a hard time recovering from an infectious disease. Bacterial Infection (Tonsilitis, bronchitis, cystitis, etc.) Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) Part used: Root History: Used by the Native Americans to combat bacterial infection Science: Contains compounds that inhibit bacteria and stimulate immune cells Practitioners opinion: Excellent Directions: Tablets: 2 tablets 3 times daily after meals. Tincture (1:5, 45% alcohol): 2.5ml three times daily. Juice: 10ml twice daily with water before meals There are several species of Echinacea, yet we recommend only one: Echinacea angustifolia. The reason is simple. It was the only species used by the Native Americans and it’s the only species to have been extensively tested clinically. It is best used in bacterial infections like tonsillitis, cystitis, bronchitis, ear infections and acne. When bacteria are causing a problem, Echinacea angustifolia is our first choice. Viral Infection Maitake (Grifola frondosa) Part used: Whole mushroom History: Used as a food and tonic in Asia Science: Contains complex sugars that stimulate immune function Practitioners opinion: Excellent in viral disease of all descriptions Directions: Tablets: Two tablets three times daily Studies have shown Maitake is one of the best immune stimulants to use when viral disease is a problem. As an example, herpes, warts, hepatitis, HIV and Post-Viral Syndrome are effectively treated by Maitake. Some of the most common viral infections are coughs, colds and flu. Practitioners are finding that when viral disease strikes, Maitake is the best herbal medicine to try first. |