Other Herbs for Your Health

ASTRAGALUS
Astragalus, a member of the bean family, is known for helping to prevent and treat colds as well as other respiratory related ailments. In many ways it is the Chinese equivalent of chicken soup during cold and flu season. In China, astragalus is called huang-qi, and traditional practitioners believe that teas and soups made from it help to strenghten the body's chi, or energy, and protect against invading organisms like viruses and infectious bacteria.

Studies have indicated that astragalus can inhibit certain viruses and induce the production of white blood cells in the bone marrow. Aside from treating colds and other respiratory viruses, Chinese herbalists also use it to help cancer patient's maintain a robust immune system as they undergo treatment for their condition, often prescribing it for use during and after chemotherapy or radiation treatments. Extracts of astragalus are derived from the root of the plant and it comes in tincture form as well as in capsules and teas. You can even find sliced versions of the root in a Chinese grocery or herb store.

Dosage:
Unlike echinacea, astragalus can be used for short- or long-term regulation of the immune system. Typical adult dosage is 30 drops of tincture or 500 mg capsules every three hours when symptoms are most acute.

OLIVE LEAF
This herb is an excellent source of phytochemicals that provide powerful antiviral, antiparasitic, antifungal and antibacterial properties, and it is the ideal herb for fighting the common cold, flu virus and respiratory infections.

Dosage
A typical adult dosage would be 500 to 1,000 mg capsules taken every two to three hours for acute infections.

ELDERBERRY
Modern scientific studies report that key active ingredients extracted from elderberry can provide the first line of defense against different flu strains. This herb neutralizes new viruses released from invaded cells and prevents them from replicating, thereby reducing the severity of your flu symptoms. Research performed in Israel showed that the juice from the berries of elderberry helps to stimulate the immune system to create antibodies against the influenza virus.

REISHI
This tasty mushroom offers medicinal benefits. It is believed that the polysaccharides in reishi are potent immune stimulators and balancers. One study reported 60 to 90 percent improvement among 2,000 people with bronchitis within two weeks of taking Reishi.

Precautions: Because of its blood thinning properties, people on blood thinning drugs should refrain from taking this herb. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should consult with their physician before taking reishi as well.

Dosage
Typical adult dosage is 30 tincture drops every two to three hours for acute infections or 30 drops twice daily for long-term immune support.

GOLDENSEAL
Goldenseal is particularly effective against infections of the mucous membranes, such as sinusitis, sore throats, bronchitis and other bacterial infections. It is known for its antiseptic and antiviral properties, and it has a drying effect on the mucous membranes which is helpful when phlegm and excess mucus are present as symptoms. Because of its bitter nature, teas made from this astringent herb may not be very potable or tasty. However, a gargle with goldenseal tea can provide relief from an inflamed, sore throat.

Precautions: Goldenseal should not be taken by those with allergies to chamomile, marigold or daisies, and pregnant women should consult with their gynecologist or naturopathic physician for appropriate dosages.

Dosage
Look for it in tincture or capsule form. The typical adult dosage is 500 to 1000 mg capsules or 60 drops every two to three hours. This herb is often used in combination with echinacea.