The Health Diva

Astragalus

A great herb for supporting the immune system is Astragalus root, is shown to stimulates the immune system in many ways. It increases the number of stem cells in bone marrow and lymph tissue and encourages their development into active immune cells. It appears to help trigger immune cells from a “resting” state into heightened activity.

In traditional Chinese medicine Astragalus is used to specifically treat chest and respiratory infections.

Black Elder

The black elderberry (Sambucas nigra) is well established for its antioxidant and healing properties. In recent years it has also been found to significantly assist sufferers of flu and cold symptoms to get better. Researchers believe that the black elderberry enhances the immune system by stimulating cytokine production. These unique proteins act as messengers in the immune system to help regulate immune response, thus helping to defend the body against disease.

Cat’s Claw

Cat’s claw Uncaria tomentosa is native to the Amazon. The name cat’s claw comes from the thorns on the plant’s leaves that look like the claws of a cat. (No cat in involved in the production of this herbJ).

There’s some evidence cat’s claw may affect the immune system. Preliminary laboratory studies suggest it may halt the spread of cancer cells. A few animal studies suggest it may help with cell damage caused by chemotherapy or radiation treatment. And could be a useful support for anyone undergoing these treatments.

Echinacea

Echinacea has been under medical scrutiny and has been put through several trials for the numerous medicinal properties it is claimed to have: namely anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. Researchers who analysed the current clinical trails on Echinacea found evidence that taking Echinacea decreased the overall risk of catching a cold by 58 per cent. The duration of colds was reduced by an average of 1.4 days. They went on to suggest that Echinacea has a benefit in decreasing the incidence and duration of the common cold.

Goldenseal

Goldenseal is a bitter that stimulates the secretion and flow of bile, and can also be used as an expectorant. It also has strong activity against a variety of bacteria, yeast, and fungi, such as E. Coli and Candida. Goldenseal is used for infections of the mucus membranes, including the mouth, sinuses, throat, the intestines, stomach, urinary tract and vagina. Goldenseal is a powerful herb to take in the short term, we recommending taking it for a maximum of two weeks at a time.

At the onset of a sinus infection, start taking Goldenseal and it will effectively combat the infection and relieve symptoms.

Medicinal Mushrooms

Much more than a friendly fungus to include in your cooking, mushrooms can offer health-boosting properties if you choose the right varieties. Cordyceps, for instance, might increase exercise endurance, while shiitake has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine to help stave off colds. To harness the healing properties of these medicinal mushrooms (which also include varieties like maitake and turkey tail), scientists have begun creating supplements that provide concentrated doses of their inflammation-fighting, antioxidant components.

There is a gathering amount of research into the use of medicinal mushrooms to help support an individual undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Oregon Grape (Berberis)

If you imagine the body as a fortress, then barriers to invasion of the body by bugs and potential allergens will come at the surfaces of the body. These surfaces include the skin, the moist lining of the eyes, the linings of the gut, the respiratory, urinary and genital tract. Or, in other words, these are the delicate areas of the body that a bacteria, parasite, fungus, virus or allergen can probe for a weak spot. These areas are actually referred to as ‘portals of entry’ by immunologists.

The overall effect of Berberis, in simple summary, is to strengthen the delicate tissues that line these areas and to reduce any inflammation, kill any invading organism and dampen allergic reactions at that site.

It has been demonstrated that the active components of Berberis attack invading bugs on three possible fronts. Firstly, some of these alkaloids are directly toxic to the bug itself, killing it outright. Secondly, the alkaloids also act on certain bugs by stopping them ‘sticking’ to body tissues. Thirdly, Berberis stimulates the immune system.

Olive Leaf

The olive tree has been held in high esteem throughout history. The oil is symbolic of purity and goodness.

Olive leaf has a wide number of constituents, including oleuropein and a few types of flavonoids (e.g., rutin, apigenin, luteolin).

Oleuropein has been scientifically proven to increase immune systems effectiveness, and help fight colds and flu.

Propolis

Honeybees gather propolis, a resin, from tree bark and leaves. They combine this resin with nectar, creating a mix of wax, pollen and bee bread. They then use this substance to seal their hives, protecting it from outside contaminants. They also use propolis at the entrance to the hive to sterilize themselves as they come and go.

Propolis is thought to contain an abundance of anti bacterial properties.

Culpepper’s Complete Herbal refers to ointments of Propolis for inflammation and fever. In WWII, it was used by the Soviet Union to treat battle wounds. Propolis is an excellent natural antibiotic and immune system booster.