IMMUNE ENHANCING SPICES, FOOD AND HERBS

SPICES FOOD HERBS

Cayenne Pepper Yogurt echinacea

Garlic Oats and Barley astragalus

Ginger Fish Olive leaf

Cinnamon Chicken Soup Elderberry

Thyme Beef American ginseng (Panax

quinquefolius)

Tea (Black, Green, Tulsi) Sweet Potatoes Andrographis

Cloves Mushrooms Cat’s Claw

Tumeric Unpasteurized Grass-Fed

Organic Milk

Aloe Vera

Black Pepper Fermented Foods Liquorice

Rosemary Raw Organic Eggs from Free-

Range Chickens

Grapefruit Seed Extract

Oregano Coconuts and Coconut Oil Shizandra

Basil Organic Vegetables Goldenseal

Marjoram Blueberries and Raspberries Baybarry

Chlorella Myrrh

Propolis St John's Wart

Camu Camu

SPICES

Cayenne Pepper (Capsicum annum, frutencens): Cayenne is the fruiting body of the

Capsicum plant, originating from Africa. While this hot powdered chili pepper is

commonly used to flavor dishes, it is also a potent medicinal plant with a long

history of use.

Cayenne is a powerful stimulant and diaphoretic that encourages your body to

produce more respiratory secretions and digestive juices.[1] Cayenne is excellent

to use at the very first sign of a head cold when your nose and throat are very dry.

It’s also a great remedy for painful dry throats caused by hacking, explosive

coughs.[2] Cayenne, in fact, is the number one agent to re-establish proper

secretions in the upper respiratory system due to acute colds, sore throat, and

hoarseness.[3] These upper respiratory secretions are loaded with immunobodies that are a crucial part of the first line of defense of your immune system!

Cayenne is also an excellent circulatory stimulant that encourages capillaries to

dilate, sending blood to your extremities.[4] The indications for Cayenne are poor

respiratory secretions, dryness, and pale membranes.[5] Cayenne should be avoided with active inflammation or hot, red, burning conditions.

Garlic (Allium sativum): Has a long history of medicinal use dating back to

the Ancient Greeks.[6]

Garlic is a respiratory antiseptic with mucolytic properties: this means it dissolves

thick mucous, clears statis, and is anti-bacterial (specifically with gram-negative

bacteria).[7] Like Cayenne, Garlic is another herb to start taking at the first sign of

a head cold. It does not have a direct effect on viruses (if they exist), but will speed

up resistance and response.

Garlic is also a well-known expectorant, and is therefore useful in bronchitis, as

well as chronic or frequent colds, assisting with the constant rattling of mucous in

bronchi.[8] The syrup of garlic is useful for asthma or coughs that make it difficult

to breath, and the oil of garlic rubbed on the chest will ease lung afflictions .[9] Take raw garlic to fight respiratory bacteria and fungi.

Overall, Garlic is best for those damp and mucousy coughs without pain, and should be avoided with active irritation or inflammation.

One of the best things about garlic is that bacteria, viruses(if they exist) , and yeast

build up no resistance to it, unlike with synthetic antibiotics.

For optimal benefits, garlic should be fresh since the active ingredient is

destroyed within one hour of smashing the garlic cloves. In other words, garlic

capsules are basically useless.

Garlic contains allicin, a chemical that is anticarcinogenic. It also has been shown

to lower LDL, lower total cholesterol, lower blood pressure, reduce your risk of

blood clots and stroke, lower homocysteine, and even prevent insect bites --

including mosquitoes and ticks.

Ginger (Zingiber officinalis): Ginger is a perennial root that grows

underground in tuberous joints. A popular food, spice, and medicine, Ginger is

one remedy that you’ll want to have on-hand all year round!

A powerful anti-inflammatory, fresh grated ginger in hot water can fend of the

very first sensations of a cold, and quickly improve symptoms.[10] Ginger tea

taken with a hot mustard footbath is known to address symptoms of acute colds, and produce a restful sleep.[11]

Ginger is also a sialagogue, which means it increases the flow of saliva, as well as

a stimulating diaphoretic. Taken before bed, Ginger is known to “break up” a

severe cold.[12] Ginger is used for dry nose that feels blocked, dry hacking

coughs, and scratchy throats.[13] It also has a history of use for chronic

bronchitis.[14] Use Ginger when feeling chilled with cold extremities.

Ginger should be avoided with blood thinning meds (warfarin, aspirin), and not

more than 2g per day should be consumed in pregnancy. And always remember that Ginger may increase absorption of other drugs.

Cinnamon (Cinnamonum verum, zeylanicum): Cinnamon is a tree bark

originating from Ceylon, and is now largely cultivated throughout Asia and

South America.[15] Cinnamon is a warming aromatic and circulatory stimulant

that prevents infection by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms in colds and

flu.[16] It is used to stimulate immune defenses in acute infection.[17]

Cinnamon tea with grated ginger can fend off the first sensations of a cold and

improve mucosal symptoms.[18] A warming expectorant that dissolves thick

mucous, Cinnamon (along with ginger) was highly prized in cold damp climates of

northern Europe for treating chest problems and respiratory difficulties – a simple

infusion of fresh ginger and cinnamon continues to be a wonderfully effective home remedy for the common cold.[19]

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): Thyme is a very common perennial plant that is

cultivated in most countries with temperate climates. It has an extremely long

history of lore and use for both medicinal and antiseptic properties.

Thyme is a full-spectrum antibacterial (effective with both gram-positive and

gram-negative bacteria), which has a direct effect on oral and upper respiratory

tract bacteria by perforating their membranes.[20] Thyme is also a fungicidal and

antispasmodic that helps to soothe the lower respiratory system.[21]

A known antiseptic and disinfectant, Thyme is anesthetic to mucous membranes,

making it an excellent addition to syrups for sore throats, as well as remedies for

treating respiratory infections in children.[22] The tea promotes perspiration at

beginning of a cold, and acts as a powerful antiseptic to respiratory passages.[23]

Use as a nasal spray or steam inhalation for laryngitis, bronchial affections, or

coughs.[24]

Rosehips: Rosehips are very high in vitamin C, which is very beneficial to your

immune system. Good for the heart and circulation. They treat infections,

including colds and flu's. They help relieve stress, which really hurts your immune

system. They also taste great. Adding them to an herbal tea is my favorite way to

use them.

Cloves: THE BIG ORAC GRAND PRIZE WINNER AT 314,446, highest of all foods

tested! Contains eugenol; its mild anesthetic benefits are useful for toothaches

and sore throats; good anti-inflammatory. The oil from this warm, aromatic spice

is approved in Germany as a topical analgesic and antiseptic. Not only do

compounds in this spice confer antibacterial and antifungal benefits they also

help fight the aging process. The high amounts of phenols found in cloves are

associated with the ability to block the formation of advanced glycation end

products (AGEs)13. AGEs are non-functioning compounds that are associated with

many age-related conditions like wrinkling of our skin or cataracts.

Turmeric: ORAC score of 159,277; general system booster due to its high

antioxidant capacity, and an anticancer agent as well; turmeric is 5 to 8 times

stronger than vitamins C and E, and even strong enough to scavenge the hydroxyl

radical, which is considered by some to be the most reactive of all oxidants

Black Pepper: Increases the bioavailability of just about all other foods--herbs

and other things.

Rosemary: The leaves of the herb rosemary are used fresh as well as dried in

traditional Mediterranean dishes to impart fragrant aromas of evergreen.

Rosemary has strong antioxidant properties, and research shows that rosemary

extract has both antibacterial2,3and antifungal properties4. Furthermore, exciting

preliminary research suggests that rosemary’s relatively high level of carnosic acid

may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and stroke. Four to six grams of

ground, fresh rosemary leaves is a typical therapeutic dose for boosting immunity

during winter months.

Oregano: The leaves of this nutrient-dense herb contain calcium, vitamin C,

beta carotene and omega-3 fatty acids. The oil of this herb has antimicrobial and

antiviral activity and may be most promising in fighting yeast infections11. Oregano

oil in combination with clove oil has been tested against the yeast Candida. In a

study on immunosuppressed animals, oregano and clove oil reduced candida

growth in samples of oral tissue. In another study12, the active components in

oregano and clove oil were shown to reduce fungal load and decrease candida

infection in animal models of vaginal candida infection12. The authors concluded

that these oils could be a promising product for the treatment of vaginal yeast

infections.

Basil: The fragrant leaves of this plant are the main ingredient in pesto. The oils

derived from basil have been shown effective against various bacteria in a

laboratory setting. Basil also contains apigenin, a bioflavonoid which is presented

in leafy plants and vegetables (e.g., parsley, artichoke, basil, celery) and may help

the immune system fight cancer. Current research trials indicate that apigenin

may reduce DNA oxidative damage, inhibit the growth of human leukemia cells,

induce cancer cell death, act as an anti-inflammatory, and as a muscle relaxer

Marjoram: If I could bottle marjoram, I would. Rubbing its fresh leaves on your

wrists and behind your ears makes for the best perfume – it has a deep tone but an

air of lightness and freshness you can’t get from synthetic sprays. In fact, in

ancient Egypt, it was originally used for cosmetics. However, today it is mostly

used as a seasoning herb. Marjoram stimulates digestion,raises appetite,calms the

mood, treats insomnia and is a diuretic.The herb has a hefty list of medicinal

applications,including treating appendicitis, vomiting, diarrhea, hepatitis,

malnutrition, itchy skin, neurosis, pancreatitis, fever and the flu. How to use

it: Dried marjoram is fitting as part of marinades or dry rubs as well as in tomato-

based sauces, soups and stews. When fresh, marjoram adds a fragrant touch when

mixed into salads and sprinkled atop pasta dishes.

FOOD

Yogurt: Probiotics, or the "live active cultures" found in yogurt, are healthy

bacteria that keep the gut and intestinal tract free of disease-causing germs.

Although they're available in supplement form, a study from the University of

Vienna in Austria found that a daily 7-ounce dose of yogurt was just as effective

in boosting immunity as popping pills. In an 80-day Swedish study of 181 factory

employees, those who drank a daily supplement of Lactobacillus reuteri—a

specific probiotic that appears to stimulate white blood cells—took 33% fewer

sick days than those given a placebo. Any yogurt with a Live and Active Cultures

seal contains some beneficial bugs, but Stonyfield Farm is the only US brand that

contains this specific strain.

Oats and Barley: These grains contain beta-glucan, a type of fiber with

antimicrobial and antioxidant capabilities more potent than echinacea, reports

a Norwegian study. When animals eat this compound, they're less likely to

contract influenza, herpes, even anthrax; in humans, it boosts immunity, speeds

wound healing

Fish: Selenium, plentiful in shellfish such as oysters, lobsters, crabs, and clams,

helps white blood cells produce cytokines-proteins that help clear flu viruses (if

they exist) out of the body. Salmon, mackerel, and herring are rich in omega-3

fats, which reduce inflammation, increasing airflow and protecting lungs from

colds and respiratory infections.

Chicken Soup: When University of Nebraska researchers tested 13 brands, they

found that all but one (chicken-flavored ramen noodles) blocked the migration

of inflammatory white cells-an important finding, because cold symptoms are a

response to the cells' accumulation in the bronchial tubes. The amino acid

cysteine, released from chicken during cooking, chemically resembles the

bronchitis drug acetylcysteine, which may explain the results. The soup's salty

broth keeps mucus thin the same way cough medicines do. Added spices, such as

garlic and onions, can increase soup's immune-boosting power.

Beef: Zinc deficiency is one of the most common nutritional shortfalls among

American adults, especially for vegetarians and those who've cut back on beef, a

prime source of this immunity-bolstering mineral. And that's unfortunate,

because even mild zinc deficiency can increase your risk of infection. Zinc in your

diet is very important for the development of white blood cells, the

intrepid immunesystem cells that recognize and destroy invading bacteria,

viruses(if they exist) , and assorted other bad guys, says William Boisvert, PhD,

an expert in nutrition and immunity at The Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla,

CA. Your optimal dose: A 3-oz serving of lean beef provides about 30 percent of

the Daily Value (DV) for zinc. That's often enough to make the difference

between deficient and sufficient. Not a beef person? Try zinc-rich oysters,

poultry, yogurt, or milk.

Grass-fed beef is very high in vitamins A and E, omega-3 fatty acids, beta

carotene, zinc and CLA. CLA (conjugated linoleic acid, a fatty acid) is three to five

times higher in grass-fed animals than grain-fed animals and is an immune system

enhancer. Don’t confuse “organic” with grass-fed, since many organically raised

cows are still fed organic corn, which you don’t want. However, most grass-fed

cows are raised organically. And if you can find organic AND grass-fed, that’s

ideal.

Sweet Potatoes: You may not think of skin as part of your immune system. But this

crucial organ, covering an impressive 16 square feet, serves as a first-line

fortress against bacteria, viruses(if they exist) , and other undesirables. To stay

strong and healthy, your skin needs vitamin A. "Vitamin A plays a major role in

the production of connective tissue, a key component of skin,"

explainsPrevention advisor David Katz, MD, director of the Yale-Griffin

Prevention Research Center in Derby, CT. One of the best ways to get vitamin A

into your diet is from foods containing beta-carotene (like sweet potatoes),

which your body turns into vitamin A. Think orange when looking for other

foods rich in beta-carotene: carrots, squash, canned pumpkin, and cantaloupe.

Mushrooms: Although we tend to think of mushrooms primarily as ingredients for

creating gourmet meals, in Traditional Chinese Medicine mushrooms have been

highly prized for thousands of years for their potent healing benefits. In Japan and

China, medicinal mushrooms, such as shiitake, maitake and reishi, have long been

regarded as longevity tonics. Research is proving that these beneficial fungi are powerful allies for strengthening the immune system.

Mushrooms contain a variety of active compounds, including polysaccharides,

glycoproteins, ergosterols, triterpenes and antibiotics. Thus far, researchers have

most intensively focused on the polysaccharides, the same type of compounds

found in astragalus. As with astragalus polysaccharides, mushroom

polysaccharides improve immune function by increasing the activity of

macrophages, which have a voracious appetite for harmful microorganisms and

cancerous cells. Polysaccharides also trigger the production of a type of white

blood cell that kills a wide range of infectious microorganisms and tumor cells.

Last, but not least, mushroom polysaccharides activate other essential immune factors, including T-cells, B-cells, interferons and interleukins.

While all medicinal mushrooms benefit the immune system, each variety contains

different compounds that work in various ways to enhance immunity. Therefore,

the best approach is to use an assortment of mushrooms to provide a broad base of

immune support. You can find shiitake and maitake mushrooms fresh or dried in

many grocery stores, and they make a delicious addition to soups or stir-fries.

Along with a wide variety of other medicinal mushrooms, shiitake, maitake and

reishi are available as concentrated extracts and in combinations specifically

formulated to enhance immune health. Products vary widely in potency, so follow manufacturers’ recommendations for dosages.

Milk, Unpasteurized Grass-Fed Organic: Raw organic milk from grass-fed

cows contains beneficial bacteria that prime yourimmune system and can reduce

allergies. It is an outstanding source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, zinc, and

enzymes. Raw organic milk is not associated with any of the health problems of

pasteurized milk such as rheumatoid arthritis, skin rashes, diarrhea and cramps.

Raw milk also contains beneficial fats that will help your immune system.

Whey Protein: Even if you don’t have access to raw milk, you can use a high-

quality whey protein that comes from grass-fed cowsto receive much of the same

health benefits. The protein in milk is whey protein. Whey is the liquid that

separates from the curd during the production of cheese. When the liquid dries

into powdered whey, the nutrients become concentrated, and it can be packaged

and used in that form. Whey protein can help you fight off colds and flu because it

contains beta-glucans and immunoglobulins, which protect your immune system

and support your body’s natural detoxification processes.

Fermented Foods: If you are serious about boosting your immunity, then

adding traditionally fermented foods is essential. One of the most healthful

fermented foods is kefir. Kefir is an ancient cultured, enzyme-rich food full of

friendly microorganisms that balance your “inner ecosystem” and strengthen

immunity. Besides kefir, other good fermented foods include natto, kimchee, miso,

tempeh, pickles, sauerkraut, yogurt (watch for sugar), and olives. Friendly bacteria

have a powerful, beneficial effect on your gut’s immunesystem, your first line of defense against pathogens, and aid in the production of antibodies.

Eggs, Raw Organic from Free-Range Chickens: Before you wrinkle up

your nose, raw eggs are an inexpensive andamazing source of high-quality

nutrients that many people are deficient in, especially high-quality protein and fat.

I am a proponent of raw eggs because they have been so helpful to my own health.

As long as you have a good source for fresh, organic raw eggs, you need not worry

about salmonella.

Coconuts and Coconut Oil: Besides being excellent for your thyroid and your

metabolism, coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, which converts in your body to

monolaurin. Monolaurin is the actual compound found in breast milk that strengthens a baby’s immunity.

A great deal of research has been done establishing the ability of lauric acid to

enhance immunity. This medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA) actually disrupts the

lipid membranes of offending organisms.

When selecting coconuts and coconut oil, make sure you choose organic ones

that are unrefined, unbleached, made without heat processing or chemicals, and

are non-GMO.

Vegetables, Locally Grown Organic Appropriate for Your Nutritional Type: When it comes to fighting off pathogens, you simply can’t do

any better than eating a variety of fresh, organic and preferably raw vegetables for

the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and enzymes they contain. However, the

amount and type of vegetables you should eat daily will depend on your nutritional type.

Make sure the veggies you choose are fresh. The nutrient value drops to

practically zero once a fruit or vegetable is canned. For example, take a look at the

ORAC value of peaches.

A raw, fresh peach has an ORAC score of 1,814. A can of peaches in heavy syrup

has an ORAC score of 436, meaning that more than 75 percent of the antioxidants

are lost in the canning process.

You can check the ORAC score for many different things at www.oracvalues.com.

The higher the score, the better. Please be aware, though, that the total

antioxidant capacity of a food alone does not determine its health benefit, which

depends on how it is absorbed and utilized by your body. ORAC score is a useful

guide, but it is only part of the picture.

Blueberries and Raspberries: Blueberries and raspberries rate very high in

antioxidant capacity (ORAC of 6,520), compared to other fruits and vegetables.

Wild blueberries in particular are potent immune boosters. They contain powerful

phytochemicals, such as anthocyanin, which is the pigment that gives blueberries

their color. And they are lower in sugar than many other fruits. Shiitake, maitake,

and reishi mushrooms appear to pack the biggest immunity punch; experts

recommend at least ¼ ounce to an ounce a few times a day for

maximum immune benefits. Add a handful to pasta sauce, saute with a little oil and add to eggs, or heap triple-decker style on a frozen pizza.

Chlorella: As foods go, chlorella is nearly perfect. Chlorella is a single-cell

freshwater algae that acts as an efficient detoxification agent by binding to toxins,

such as mercury, and carries them out of your system. It is the chlorophyll in

chlorella that makes it so powerful. Chlorophyll helps you process more oxygen, cleanses your blood and promotes the growth and repair of your tissues.

Propolis: Propolis is a bee resin and one of the most broad-spectrum

antimicrobial compounds in the world, if not the broadest spectrum, according to

master herbalist Donnie Yance. Propolis is also the richest source of caffeic acid and apigenin, two very important phenolic compounds that aid in immune response.

Teas: People who drank 5 cups a day of black tea for 2 weeks had 10 times more

virus(if they exist) -fighting interferon in their blood than others who drank a

placebo hot drink, in a Harvard study. The amino acid that's responsible for

this immune boost, L-theanine, is abundant in both black and green tea—decaf

versions have it, too. Your optimal dose: Several cups daily.

The two best types of tea for fending off microinvaders are Matcha green tea and

tulsi tea.

Matcha is the most nutrient-rich green tea and comes in the form of a stone-

ground powder, completely unfermented. The best Matcha comes from Japan

and has up to seventeen times the antioxidants of wild blueberries, and seven

times more than dark chocolate.

Green teas are rich in polyphenols, in the form of natural chemicals called

catechins. The most powerful catechin in tea is epigallocatechin (EGCG), which

was found in one study to be 25 to 100 times more potent than antioxidant

vitamins C and E. AndMatcha is more than 100 times as potent in EGCG as regular

brewed green tea.

Tulsi tea, coming from the holy basil herb, has been used for thousands of years in

the Ayurvedic medicine of India. Not only is this tea loaded with antioxidants, but

it has multiple positive health benefits, including supporting your immune health,

memory, heart health and vision.

HERBS American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius): Recent research shows that American

ginseng root—revered for centuries as a health and vitality tonic—helps prevent upper

respiratory infections when taken for several months. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, tonic

herbs, such as ginseng, are taken to strengthen immunity, but are discontinued during an

acute illness (such as a cold). Because products vary in potency, follow manufacturers’

dosage recommendations. Panax ginseng is used for improving thinking,

concentration, memory and work efficiency, physical stamina, and athletic

endurance. It is also used in treating chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), for boosting

the immune system, and for fighting particular infections in a lung disease called

cystic fibrosis. Its main active component, ginsenosides, has been proven to have

anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata): Sometimes called “Indian

echinacea,” andrographis reduces the duration and severity of cold symptoms, and

it also might help prevent upper respiratory infections, studies show. Compounds

in andrographis stimulate immune function and halt viral growth. It improves non-

specific immune response. Although both andrographis and beta glucan effective

immune enhancers. The immune response may be specific directed at a microbial

invader already present in the body, or generally, strengthening the immune system

in preparation against future infections. Andrographis strongly stimulates

phagocytosis and the production of specific antibodies. It shows hepatoprotective

action. Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Cancer prevention or treatment, anti-

tumor, Colds and flu, upper respiratory infection, Diabetes, Familial Mediterranean

Fever, Graves disease, Herpes Simplex, and HIV, Immune system, Malaria,

Rheumatoid arthritis. Remedies For: Digestive: Promotes digestion .

Hepatoprotective: Protects the liver and gall bladder. Vermicidal: Kills intestinal

worms & support intestine. Anti-acne: Protect skin from pimples. Analgesic: Pain

killer. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling and cuts down exudation from

capillaries. Antibacterial: Fights bacterial activity. Although Andrographis appears

to have weak direct antibacterial action, it has remarkably beneficial effect in

reducing diarrhea and symptoms arising from bacterial infections. Expectorant:

Promotes mucus discharge from the respiratory system. Hypoglycemic: Blood

sugar reducer. Immune Enhancement. Laxative: Aids bowel elimination. Sedative:

A relaxing herb, though not with the same effect as the accepted herbal sedatives,

valerian roots, hops, skullcap, etc.

Echinacea (Echinacea spp.): Despite a few studies that question its efficacy,

hundreds of studies support echinacea as an effective aid for preventing and

treating colds, flu and other infections. Echinacea stimulates infection-fighting

immune cells and increases the production of other immune compounds, such as

interferon. Echinacea works best when taken frequently at the first sign of

infection: 30 to 60 drops of liquid extract or 1 to 2 capsules (300 to 400 mg each)

every two hours for the first 24 to 48 hours, followed by the same dosage four

times daily for three days after symptoms disappear. The thing you should know

about echinacea is that your immune system can become immune to it if you use it

too long. For that reason, it is recommended that you use it only when needed,

instead of as a daily preventative measure.

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra): Dark blue-black elderberries are rich in

compounds that disarm viruses and prevent them from taking over healthy cells.

Studies show that elderberry offers significant protection against respiratory viral

infections. For prevention, take 1/2 teaspoon of liquid extract or 1 teaspoon of

elderberry syrup twice daily. To hasten recovery from a cold or flu, take 1

teaspoon of extract or 2 teaspoons of syrup four times a day.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus): For centuries, humans have

relied on astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), garlic and medicinal mushrooms

to bolster immune function, and current research supports their traditional use. For

optimal immunity, use one or more of these herbs regularly. A delicious way to

take them is in the form of a tonic soup.

A member of the pea family, astragalus root has been used for more than 2,000

years in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a popular tonic for strengthening vitality

and to bolster resistance to disease. Today, researchers are trying to scientifically validate the herb’s reputation as an immune enhancer.

Studies show that astragalus improves immune function in several ways. It triggers

the creation of immune cells in bone marrow and lymphatic tissue; it prods

immune cells—including natural killer cells and macrophages—into increased

activity; and it enhances the production of immune compounds, such as

immunoglobulin. Components of astragalus, such as polysaccharides (large,

complex sugar molecules that enhance immune activity), along with saponins and

flavonoids, have been found to shield cells against the free radical damage that

leads to degenerative diseases, such as cancer.

In China, researchers have conducted dozens of studies on astragalus with

promising results. For example, in a 1997 study, researchers found that giving

astragalus to elderly mice (36 and 60 weeks old) restored immune function to that

of 10-week-old mice. And in a 1995 clinical trial, 115 patients with low white

blood cell counts took either 10 grams or 30 grams of a concentrated astragalus

extract daily. Both groups experienced a significant increase in white blood cell

counts after eight weeks of treatment.

Cat’s Claw: Most herbalists and naturalists agree that Cat's Claw's benefits

exceed all other known immune enhancing or modulating herbs, including Reishi,

Echinacea, Siberian ginseng, and Astragalus. Traditional uses gastric or duodenal

ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, and leaky bowel syndrome, shrink cysts

and tumors and it inhibits cancer metastasis, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial

(viral and bacterial), anti-oxidant, and anti-fungal, relieving the pains from

rheumatism or arthritis, fungal problems, including Candida, used for treating

Herpes, benefit almost any autoimmune or inflammatory issues, dysentery, and

fevers.

Aloe Vera: The gel of raw aloe vera contains vitamins C and E, plus the minerals

calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium, and chromium, as well as antioxidants, fiber,

amino acids, enzymes, sterols, and lignins and, most importantly, polysaccharides.

It is the polysaccharides in aloe that help it do everything from fighting infections,

to boosting the immune system. The polysaccharides found in raw, fresh aloe vera

are essential glyconutrients, long-chain sugars the body needs in order to maintain

a strong immune system and achieve radiant health.These polysaccharides increase

the levels of T- and B- lymphocytes, cytokines, interleukin and Natural Killer

Cells, important parts of your immune system that help to fight off illness. It is

recommended for serious immune deficiency conditions. It is naturally antiseptic

and antibacterial, can be applied to cuts, scrapes and abrasions, Antifungal, Anti-inflammatory – can ease the pain of poison oak, helps to balance blood

sugar and support diabetics, Cools and speeds healing of sun burns, Weight loss,

detoxification and Prebiotic.

It is also good for Eczema, acne, rashes, psoriasis, scarring burns and other skin disorders.

Candida, burns, stretch marks, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, athletes foot and many more.

Liquorice: this works particularly well when the immune system is suppressed by stress or

steroids. Licorice buffers the inflammatory response by increasing steroid output by the

adrenal glands; a good buffer if your immune system is over responding to the flu. It is used

for many ailments including asthma, athlete's foot, baldness, body odour, bursitis, canker

sores, chronic fatigue, depression, colds and flu, coughs, dandruff, emphysema, gingivitis and

tooth decay, gout, heartburn, HIV, viral infections, fungal infections, ulcers, liver problems,

Lyme disease, menopause, psoriasis, shingles, sore throat, tendinitis, tuberculosis, ulcers,

yeast infections, prostate enlargement and arthritis. Lowers stomach acid levels, relieve

heartburn and indigestion and acts as a mild laxative. Licorice also appears to enhance

immunity by boosting levels of interferon, a key immune system chemical. The

phytoestrogens in licorice have a mild estrogenic effect, making the herb potentially useful in

easing certain symptoms of PMS (premenstrual syndrome), such as irritability, bloating and

breast tenderness.

Grapefruit Seed Extract: is antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal but should only be taken

when you already feel ill. Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) has very high amounts of disease-

fighting, free-radical eliminating antioxidants and phytonutrients called bioflavonoids. One of

these powerful bioflavanoids (plant antioxidants) include the chemical component hesperidin,

a well-known natural immune-system stimulator and booster. A very effective non-toxic

disinfectant. Effective in killing over "800 bacterial and viral strains, 100 strains of fungus,

and a large number of single and multi-celled parasites."² No other naturally-occuring anti-

microbial can come close to these results.

Shizandra: In a small town called Chirchik, Russia, a flu epidemic swept the town. When

many adults and children did not get sick scientists wanted to know why they were immune

to the disease. It turns out that all of them used the berries from an herb called Shizandra.

Used as an expectorant and antitussive in colds and coughs, Schisandra may also help to

improve brain efficiency, increase work capacity, and build strength, reduces tiredness and

sleeplessness, and may help enhance vision.

Goldenseal: The primary effect that goldenseal has on our bodies is to assist with our

immune system. Not only does it help to boost our immune system, but also assists in

fighting bacteria and viruses. Goldenseal is also used as a detoxifier and blood purifier, and is

said to be beneficial for the liver. Many people report that it helps with urinary tract

infections, sinus problems, as well as promoting the healing of mouth ulcers and cold sores.

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) contains berberine and hydrastine alkaloids, which are the

active compounds in this herb. It is the berberine that imparts the rich and bright golden

yellow color to the herb. The other compounds found in goldenseal are albumin, b-complex

vitamins, biotin, calcium, candine, chlorine, choline, chlorogenic acid,inositol, iron,

lignin, manganese, PABA, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin A, C & E. The alkaloids are

bitter, and for this reason most herbal infusions (herbal teas) that contain goldenseal, also

include other sweet herbs, to lessen the taste. In Chinese medicine it is referred to as a "bitter

tonic herb". These bitter herbs are also indicated to assist with stimulating digestion (since it

helps in the stimulation of the gall bladder to secrete bile), counteracting sweet cravings and

having antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Baybarry: Primarily, bayberry is used for its beneficial effects in treating infectious

diseases, cholera, colds, congestion, diarrhea, dysentery, fevers, flu, glandular problems,

goiters, uterine hemorrhage, indigestion, jaundice, excessive menstruation, and primary

tuberculosis. Additionally, this has been shown to be extremely helpful in dealing with

bleeding, colitis, bleeding gums, liver disorders, excessive mucus, scurvy, sore and ulcerated

throat, thyroid problems, ulcers, prolapsed of the uterus, and varicose veins, improves the

whole circulation, and tones up tissues. Stimulate the system and increase immune function.

Camu Camu: is high in vitamin C. Vitamin C may be the single most important nutrient

for the immune system. It is essential for the formation of adrenal hormones and the

production of lymphocytes. It also has direct effect on bacteria and viruses. Vitamin C should

be taken with bioflavonoids, natural plant substances that enhance absorption and reinforce

the action of this vitamin.

Myrrh: The extract of myrrh has been shown to improve the bacteria killing effect of white

blood cells and is effective in fighting all kinds of infections, whether bacterial, viral or

fungal. It is also directly anti-microbial. Myrrh is antifungal, antiseptic, and astringent.

Myrrh is an immune stimulant, a circulatory stimulant, and an expectorant. Internally and

externally, myrrh works to heal infection, repair wounds, and clear poisons from the body.

Stimulates regeneration of healthy cells.

St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum): St. John's wort contains numerous

compounds that possess documented biological actions, and are the focus of much study.

Activity of Constituents: Amentoflavone is antiinflammatory and antiulcer. GABA is a

sedative. Hyperforin is an antibacterial agent active against gram-positive bacteria, is wound

healing, a potential anticarcinogenic, and a neurotransmitter inhibitor. Hypericin is strongly

antiviral Proanthocyanidins are antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, and vasorelaxant.

Pseudohypericin is antiviral and Quercitrin is a MAO inhibitor, as are the Xanthones.

Xanthones are antidepressant, antimicrobial, antiviral, diuretic, and cardiotonic. St. John's

wort is an excellent wound healer. It possesses strong antimicrobial properties, is a significant

antifungal and antibacterial agent, and is especially effective against gram-positive bacteria.

It inactivates Escherichia coli at dilutions of 1:400 or 1:200, and is also active against

Staphloccus aureus.

Two constituents of the herb, hyperforin and adhyperforin possess antibiotic effects stronger

than that of sulfonilamide.

Burns heal rapidly with the application of St. John's wort. In one study using St. Johns'wort

oil, first, second, and third degree burns healed at least three times as rapidly than those

treated with conventional treatments, and scaring was minimal. Orally administered St. John's

wort tincture demonstrated a remarkable healing of incisions, excision and dead space

wounds, and has also been shown to inhibit keloid formation.

Studies indicate St. John's wort may enhance coronary blood flow as well as hawthorn, due to

the activity of the procyanidins. It significantly increases the production of nocturnal

melatonin, which means taking it will help you sleep better, and feel better.

St. John's wort has also shown promise in the treatment of chronic tension headaches, and

also appears to be liver-protective. It is a proven antidepressant, best used by those who are

mildly to moderately depressed. It is also historically used to treat neurological conditions

such as anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, irritability, neuralgia, neuroses, migraines, fibrosis,

dyspepsia, and sciatica.

St. John’s wort is an ally when dealing with any fungal problem, such as candida (infusion as

sitz bath), thrush (infusion as mouth wash), or an infection on the skin or nails(frequent soaks

in infusion). Frequent applications of St. John’s wort oil will also help in healing these

infections.

Use the oil to rub on to tired, sore, achy, painful, overworked muscles. St. John’s wort oil is

legendary for relieving the pain and inflammation of back-ache, stiff neck, sore shoulders,

bad knees, tennis elbow, and anything else that hurts.

St. Johns'wort has shown to be of considerable benefit to patients with Acquired Immune

Deficiency Syndrome. (AIDS)

In one study, 16 out of 18 patients stabilized or improved during a 40 month period during

which they were treated with St. John's wort. Only 2 of the 16 experienced an opportunistic

infection during the time they took the herb.

Many studies have proven that St. John's wort inhibits a variety of viruses, including herpes

simplex types 1 and 2, and HIV-1 viruses associated with AIDS. Researchers have concluded

that both hypericin and pseudohypericin are uncommonly effective antiviral agents.

The antiviral activity of St. John's wort appears to be somewhat photo-dynamic, involving a

photoactivation process to become more intensely effective.