Herbs for the Immune System

Ingredient descriptions:

Indian Ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera)

Actions: Adaptogen, tonic, anti-inflammatory, immune stimmulant, restorative, rejuvinator.

Common Use: In Ayurvedic medicine, this herb is considered the "Ginseng of India", said to "protect the organism from illness through maintaining the healthy balance of physical energies." Like other adaptogens, ashwagandha root exhibits an anti-stress effect, an immunomodulatory effect, it can enhance both short and long term memory, and it can strengthen the body's overall power of resistance. In sum, this Ayurvedic herb helps build immunity and is useful as a general tonic to enhance virility and vitality. Also indicated as exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties. 20 to 40 drops 2-3 times daily.

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Chinese Astragalus root (Astragalus membranaceus)

Actions: Deep immune activator, diuretic, tonic, hypotensive, vasodilator, anti-stress agent.

Common Use: A digestive aid containing polysaccharides which enhance immune activity and T-cell function. In Traditional Chinese Medicine astragalus is considered a deep immune tonic that increases the "bone marrow reserve", increasing the body's ability to produce more immune effector cells (such as T-cells), protecting us from "pathogens". Also used as a daily tonic when one is not feeling well; it has the ability to build the energy reserves in the body and exhibits several anti-stress properties. Astragalus root has also been indicated as an aid in the side effects of chemotherapy as well as having the ability to inhibit tumor growth. If taken cumulatively, especially with Chinese Ligustrum (Privet) fruit, it shows marked anti-tumor properties. 20 to 40 drops 1 to 3 times daily.

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Peruvian Cat's Claw (Uña de Gato) bark (Uncaria tomentosa) Rainforest

Actions: Deep immune activator, tonic, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral, hypotensive, cardiac tonic.

Common Use: This amazing vine from the Peruvian rain forest is offered in Peruvian pharmacies. 15 to 30 drops 2-3 daily. Do not use with anti-ulcer medications. Not recommended if pregnant or nursing.

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Echinacea root (Echinacea angustifolia)

Actions: Antimicrobial, alterative, antiseptic, antibacterial, immune stimulant, anticatarrhal.

Common Use: Echinacea is the prime remedy to help rid the body of microbial infections. This plant shows up in most herbal cold, flu and fever formulas, for this purpose it combines well with golden seal. In conjunction with other herbs it may be used for any infection, anywhere in the body. 20 to 60 drops 2-3 times daily or more as needed. Not recommended for long term use in large amounts.

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Panax ginseng root (Panax ginseng)
aka Chinese and Korean ginseng

Actions: Adaptogen, tonic, restorative, anti-oxidant, immune stimulant.

Common Use: Korean Ginseng has a high content of the Rg1 group of Ginsenosides which are arousing, stimulating and cause an increase in motor activity. This root has also been of benefit in conditions of tiredness, weakness, debility, convalescence, low resistance and aging. It acts on the adrenal and pituitary glands to help them respond to stress more rapidly and is also used to increase mental and physical work capacity, increase concentration and mental activity, enhance mental acuity and intellectual and physical performance and benefit the immune system among other things. 10 to 30 drops to 3 times daily. May cause a slight insomnia if taken at bedtime.

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Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Actions: Expectorant, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, adrenal agent, antispasmodic, mild laxative, alterative, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antitoxic, tonic, pectoral.

Common Use: In China, licorice root has been called "The Great Detoxifier." It acts on the endocrine system and the liver as an anti-hepatotoxic effective in treating hepatitis and cirrhosis. Also as an expectorant and anti-inflammatory it is useful in coughs and bronchitis. A recent study found that licorice root actually stimulates the production of interferon, that critical chemical in the immune system that could be the key to preventing and treating many immune response deficiency diseases. A group of Russian researchers have found that licorice root inhibits the growth of certain tumors. Licorice root also possesses estrogenic activity, and is said to be beneficial as a uterine tonic and to induce normal ovulation. This herb is also included in the Hoxsey formula. 5 to 30 drops 2-3 times daily. Caution: Excessive and prolonged use of licorice root can cause sodium retention and potassium depletion. Potassium supplementation (75-100mg daily) prevents this problem. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Chinese Ligustrum Privet fruit (Ligustrum lucidum)

Actions: Nutritive tonic, deep immune activator, liver tonic, digestive aid.

Common Use: Ligustrum, or privet fruit, is an excellent digestive aid, it can be of benefit in chronic bowel complaints and ulcerations of the stomach and bowels. Also known to nourish and tone the liver and kidneys, benefit the skin, and act on conditions such as dizziness, spots in front of the eyes, lower back pain and tinnitus. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ligustrum is often combined with astragalus root to combat long term weakness, chronic illness or deficiency, and many degenerative ailments such as general immune weakness. 20 to 40 drops 2-4 times daily or 1 time daily for maintenance.

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Lomatium root (Lomatium dissectum)

Actions: Antiviral, antibacterial, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, immune stimulator.

Common Use: Lomatium root has been used as an effective anti-viral and anti-bacterial remedy, it is especially useful in the relief of respiratory and urinary infections. This herb was used by the North American Indians as their most powerful herbal antibiotic. It has shown effective against a wide variety of bacteria and fungi in lab tests. This herb also has the ability to make the blood more alkaline, which is beneficial for many people who have too acidic blood. Also used to stimulate the immune system and decrease inflammation. 5 to 20 drops 2-4 times daily.

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Chinese Lovage root (Ligusticum wallichii v. sp.)

Actions: Tonic, deep immune activator, antimicrobial, hypotensive, mild nervine.

Common Use: Increasing interest is being shown in plants that impact the immunological process within the tissue that mediates its work, Chinese Lovage root or ligusticum, is one of those plants (this is not Osha root Ligusticum porteri). In addition to its antimicrobial properties, Chinese ligusticum is considered by herbalists to be an immune modulator, or adjuvant, an herb that has a beneficial effect upon the human immune response, not necessarily acting as stimulants or inhibitors, but rather "feeding" the whole process in some, as yet unknown way. 15 to 30 drops 2 to 3 times daily. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Japanese Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa)

Actions: T-cell stimulant, anti-neoplastic, immune stimulant.

Common Uses: Maitake extract is an immune stimulant. 20 to 45 drops 2-4 times daily.

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Brazilian Pau d'Arco bark (Tabebuia impetiginosa)

Actions: Alterative, antifungal, antibacterial, depurative, immune support.

Common Use: Since information on its antifungal and anti-candida properties were made known, this is the herb of choice for Candidiasis. It is reported to be a natural blood cleanser and builder. It has antibiotic properties which can aid in destroying viral infections in the body. It has been used to give the body strength and energy and to protect and strengthen the immune system. Scientific studies also show that the active ingredient of Pau d'arco, lapachol, can inhibit tumor growth. It has also been used in healing diseases such as arthritis, asthma, diabetes, gonorrhea, hemorrhage, hernia, infection, liver ailments, lupus, Parkinson's disease, pyorrhea, skin problems, spleen, ulcers, varicose veins and wounds. 20 to 45 drops 3-5 times daily.

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Red Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)

Actions: Adaptogen, deep immune activator, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, antibacterial, antiviral, cardiac tonic, expectorant, antineoplastic.

Common Use: Reishi is in the most highly rated category of herbs ("Superior"), in terms of multiple benefits and lack of side effects, in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Reishi greatly reduced the symptoms of oxygen deprivation among Chinese workers who traveled to the high plateau of Tibet, climbing 15,000 feet in 3 days in the process. Reishi is a true adaptogen, enhancing health and normal functions of the body. For example, while it increases some components of immune response, it also inhibits pathological immune functions. It has been reported to reduce the histamine release associated with allergic reactions. It also increased immunoglobulin-A levels. 20 to 40 drops 2-3 times daily.

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Chinese Schizandra berry (Schizandra chinensis)

Actions: Tonic, adaptogen, aphrodisiac, mild stimulant, deep immune activator, antioxidant.

Common Use: Schizandra fruits or berries contain various lignans, mainly schizandrins, these lignans have been found to prevent liver damage, stimulate liver repair, and stimulate normal liver functioning. These properties appear to be related to the various antioxidant abilities of the various schizandrins. Schizandra also helps in digestion, regulating gastric acid release. Other studies have shown that extracts of schizandra are stimulating to the central nervous system and are cholinergic. There have been numerous reports on schizandra's ability to quicken reflexes, increase work efficiency, control anger and combat neurasthenias (headaches, insomnia, dizziness, palpitations). Other reports have mentioned increased cognitive function and increased memory. Recent research studies have indicated that schizandra has numerous biological activities, including: anti-bacterial, mild stimulant, liver protective, anti-depressant, antioxidant, adaptogen and cardiac tonic. In Oriental Medicine, schizandra is recommended for the lungs, liver and kidneys, including as an aphrodisiac ( kidney element). Schizandra is also a registered medicine in Russia for vision problems since the herb has been found to prevent eye fatigue and increase acuity.

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Shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes)

Actions: Adaptogen, deep immune activator, antiviral, antineoplastic.

Common Use: Shiitake appears to be beneficial for soothing bronchial inflammations and regulating urine incontinence. Shiitake mycelia is rich in carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and minerals. It contains a polysaccharide-protein complex that studies have shown to: activate macrophages, promoting recognition of antigens and information transmission to the helper T-cells and increasing the rate at which objects are engulfed; reinforce interleukin-1 production, activating the helper T-cells; promote the mitosis of B-lymphocytes (and others), increasing their proliferation; increase antibody production; and, improve health of chronic hepatitis patients. This fungi has been extensively studied in the Orient and elsewhere, the reported beneficial findings are to detailed and numerous to mention here. For anyone with further interest we recommend reading Medicinal Mushrooms by Christopher Hobbs, subjects include reishi, shiitake, maitake, kombucha, and more. 20 to 40 drops 2-3 times daily.

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St. John's Wort flowering tops (Hypericum perforatum)

Common Use: St. John's wort achieved instant fame in the US when clinical studies confirmed its effectiveness in the relief of mild-to-moderate depression. The news came as no surprise to herbalists, who have long used St. John's wort not only for depression, but also for the relief of wounds, burns, injured nerves, inflammations, ulcers, anxiety, and other ailments. Today, St. John's wort is one of the most frequently used in mild-to-moderate depression in Germany, and it seems destined to become just as popular in the US. The plant has also generated intense scientific interest because of its potential as an antiviral agent.

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Brazilian suma root (Pfaffia paniculata)

Actions: Adaptogen, tonic, aphrodisiac, restorative, astringent.

Common Use: Suma root, also known as Para Todo (For All Things) is called "Brazilian Ginseng" by some herbalists and is one of the most highly regarded South American herbs. While not a true member of the Panax ginseng family, it is an authentic adaptogenic herb, and as such exerts a normalizing influence on your body and can help regulate and enhance your endocrine, nervous, digestive, cardiovascular and immune systems. South American Natives have used Suma for centuries to treat wounds, skin rashes, low energy and sexual disinterest. The overall effect is to give you an increased resistance to stress while having a cell-building and regenerating effect. It also has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate chronic and acute pain. Suma root is also quite valuable nutritionally as it contains essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids and trace elements. Researchers have identified 152 chemical constituents in the root, including 19 amino acids, electrolytic and trace minerals such as iron, magnesium, cobalt, silica and zinc, as well as vitamins A, B-1, B-2, E, K and pantothenic acid. It contains high amounts of the trace element germanium, which is a powerful immune stimulator. The germanium may be partly responsible for Suma's powerful ability to bring more oxygen to the cells. Suma root is becoming quite popular because of its high content of several palnt hormones. It is considered one of the richest sources of B-Ecdysterone, a plant hormone that can help maintain your youth and strength. B-Ecdysterone can also accelerate wound healing , along with allantoin (comfrey also contains allantoin), a known cellular rebuilder that is present in this plant. Research in Brazil, Japan and the United States has found unique natural substances in Suma called pfaffosides which are believed to regulate blood sugar levels. Suma helps regulate blood pressure, cholesterol, hormones (especially estrogen) and acid-base balance. You can benefit by using Suma root as a healing agent, tonic or aphrodisiac. 15 to 40 drops 2-3 times daily. Not recommended if pregant or nursing.

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Usnea lichen (Usnea barbata)

Actions: Antibiotic, antibacterial, antimicrobial, expectorant, immune strengthener.

Common Use: Usnea or old man's beard as it is sometimes referred contains usnic acid, a natural antibiotic proven effective against gram positive bacteria, such as Streptococcus (strep throat), Staphylococcus (impetigo, etc.), Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and other fast growing species. Scientists think that usnic acid works by disrupting cellular metabolism, either by preventing the formation of ATP (the cells' energy source), or by the uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylization. Usnea may also be superior to the drug Flagyl (metronidazole). Usnea is effective against Trichomonas, a parasite which can cause among other things, a serious infection of the uterine cervix. Flagyl is widely prescribed for Trichomonas infection, but it is now believed to also cause cancer. 20 to 40 drops 2-4 times daily. We pick and make this product fresh.

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Fresh Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula)

Actions: Deep immune activator, antiviral, analgesic, antineoplastic.

Common Use: 15 to 30 drops 3-5 times daily before meals. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Astragalus/Ligustrum

Health Promoting Tonic. In Chinese medicine, Astragalus root is regarded as one of the most important tonic and health promoting plants. It is used to increase resistance to disease and infections, restore a depressed immune system, restore energy reserves and reduce stress. Its benefits are said to increase when combined with Chinese Ligustrum fruit.

Contents: 75% Chinese Astragalus root and 25% Chinese Ligustrum (Privet) fruit. 20 to 45 drops 1-3 times daily.

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Cat’s Claw / Astragalus / Reishi

Health Enhancing Tonic. While these herbs have extensive traditional use as immune enhancers, they each have also shown benefits for a number of other conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and poor circulation. This formula can be used as a general cardiovascular tonic and health enhancing tonic.

Contents: Peruvian Cat’s Claw bark, Chinese Astragalus root and Red Reishi mushroom. 20 to 40 drops 2-3 times daily. Recommended to be taken for 3-4 months consecutively for best results. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Cat's Claw / Pau d' Arco Plus

Immune Support Tonic. This combination of herbs includes deep immune activators, surface immune activators (anti-microbials) and adaptogens. This specific combination can help support and strengthen the body’s natural immune functions on all levels.

Contents: Peruvian Cat’s Claw bark, Brazilian Pau d’Arco bark, Chinese Astragalus root, Echinacea angustifolia root, Red Reishi mushroom, Chinese Schizandra berry, Siberian Ginseng root, Chinese Ligustrum (Privet) fruit and Licorice root. 20 to 45 drops 3-4 times daily. Recommended to be taken for 3-4 months consecutively for best results. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Immun-Essence™ Plus

Deep Immune Activator. The herbs in this formula have traditionally been considered to act as deep immuno-modulators, having a beneficial effect on the cellular foundations of the human immune response. This is a long-term formula for strengthening the body’s deepest powers of defense. Safe to use therapeutically for chronic conditions or as a tonic for deep immune support. Indicated in all chronic viral infections and auto-immune imbalances, such as environmental allergies, candida infections, chronic fatigue syndrome, Epstein-Barr, blood disorders, HIV and related immune disorders. Many degenerative diseases such as cancer also fall into this category.

Contents: Chinese Astragalus root, Chinese Ligustrum fruit, Chinese Lovage (Ligusticum v. sp.) root, Peruvian Cat’s Claw bark, St. John’s Wort flowering tops, Red Reishi mushroom, Shiitake mushroom, Chinese Schizandra berry and fresh Venus’ Flytrap. 20 to 50 drops 3-5 times daily or once daily for maintenance. During the acute phase of infections use with surface immune activators such as Echinacea. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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Mai-T Mushroom Plus™

Immune, Adaptogenic and Whole Body Tonic. This formula also makes an excellent adaptogenic and whole body detoxifying and revitalizing tonic.

Contents: Japanese Maitake mushroom, Red Reishi mushroom, Shiitake mushroom, Chinese Cordyceps fungus, Chinese Tremella (White) fungus (when available) and Chinese Astragalus root in a base containing approximately 450 mg. of concentrated Rose Hips extract per 30 drops. 20 to 45 drops 3-4 times daily.

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Venus Flytrap / Cat’s Claw

Immune Support Tonic.This amazing vine from the Peruvian rain forest is offered in Peruvian pharmacies. Not recommended if pregnant or nursing. Along with venus flytrap, the combination makes an affordable deep immune activator.

15 to 45 drops 3-5 times daily before meals. Recommended to be used for 3-4 months consecutively for best results. Not recommended if nursing or pregnant.

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