@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ Herbs For Immunity Your immune system has a huge responsibility - to protect you from the harmful effects of pathogenic bacteria and viruses. An intricate interplay of biochemical processes is constantly at work to keep you in good health. Herbs both nourish and activate the immune system. Alfalfa contains every known vitamin and mineral including the newly discovered Vitamin P. Alfalfa provides a source of easily absorbed nutrients which can help support the immune system. Since herbs are foods, other nourishing herbal allies such as oat straw and parsley can be incorporated into the diet. When properly used, dried herbs can provide a source of readily assimilated minerals. Many botanical medicines will biochemically activate the immune system. The following are some safe, commonly used herbs for immunity: * Echinacea angustifolia increases T-cell activity. When taken in the early stages of an illness, it wards off viral infections. Echinacea loses its immune-enhancing effects after as few as three days; therefore, it's best used during times of stress or during early signs of infection. Do not use it for extended periods of time. * Licorice root supports immune function primarily through its effect on the adrenal system, protecting the thymus gland from corticosteroids (when under stress, the adrenal glands respond by producing corticosteroids. These hasten the normal diminishment of the thymus gland (the gland that produces T-cells). Licorice may be taken as a sweet tea or in its more potent extract forms during infectious processes. If you use licorice over a long period of time, however, increase your intake of potassium-rich foods to avoid a deficiency. People with hypertension must use caution when taking licorice and need to consult a practitioner before using the herb. * Goldenseal and Oregon grape root both contain a strongly antibiotic substance called berberine as their active ingredient. Goldenseal stimulates circulation to the spleen and in this way enhances immune function. * Astragalus is a nutrient herbal shown by researchers in China to increase natural killer cell activity. The dried root is pleasant when used to flavor soup when cooked with rice. * Eleutherococcus senticosus, a Russian herb, is similar to ginseng in its healing properties. It helps diminish stress-related effects. For more on this, read Dr. I.I Brekhman's book. * Propolis (bee resin) along with bee pollen was recognized as a healing agent when it was noticed that many beekeepers lived long. It was discovered that the "dirty" honey at the bottom of the barrel was rich in nutrients and healing properties, and beekeepers thrived after eating the honey. Bee Pollen contains every known nutrient and furnishes an excellent food supplement. Propolis enhances immune activity and is available in extract form as an adjunct to immune support. * Lecithin, a by-product of soybeans, is known for reducing high cholesterol levels which are factors in immune suppression, and lecithin has been shown to improve immune status. Lecithin granules may be added to foods. Lecithin is also available as a supplement or can be absorbed by eating foods rich in this nutrient such as corn, vegetable oils, wholegrain cereals and soybeans. ------------------------------------------------------------- End of chapter.