All systems GO for immune wellness
C old and flu viruses are relentless in trying to invade your body - but strong immunity will boost your chances of staying healthy . Imagine a pill you could take that helped keep every cell in your body healthy - impossible? Not really. Over the past 30 years, a wealth of scientific evidence has accumulated on the power of nutritional supplements - vitamins, minerals, herbs - to significantly improve cell performance and ensure the efficiency of all the body’s biochemical processes. Nutrient deficiencies compromise the immune system by reducing the ability of the T-cells (white blood cells) to repel antigens (foreign substances, like bacteria and viruses) in the body. Unless you are meticulous about analysing the food you eat, it is difficult to be sure that you are getting the right amounts of the nutrients you need; plus, factors like stress, illness, intense exercise, and your genetic composition and biochemistry all conspire to affect how well or badly you absorb those nutrients. A good quality all-in-one vitamin and mineral supplement is an excellent idea, especially as many nutrients work best
when combined with others. For peak immunity, add these specific herbs and nutrients: Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) In traditional Chinese medicine, this is considered to be ‘bitter’ and ‘cold’, which means it is appropriate for any conditions that are defined as ‘hot’, such as acute infections and fever. Andrographis works as a preventive, helping to reduce the likelihood of catching a cold or flu, and also as a treatment, reducing symptoms such as fever, tiredness, sore throat, headache, cough, poor sleep, mouth ulcers, earache, and nasal and throat congestion. Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)
thought to date to the third millennium BC. It is a gentle adaptogen, stimulating and increasing energy, while also easing asthma and coughs and reducing excessive mucus. It has a tonic effect on red blood cells, which enhances haemoglobin production, and on the lymph glands, which speed the removal of toxins from the body. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) The use of this herb can be traced back to ancient Native American tribes; today it is used all around the world to strengthen immunity and fight off colds and flu. Research shows that it improves the body’s production
of interferon, T-cells and natural killer
(NK) cells, as well as speeding tissue repair. Its best proven use is as a treatment for colds and flu; however, other research suggests it may
Long used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat infections, this herb boosts the body’s production
of interferon, a natural antiviral
be of use for patients with autoimmune disorders, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) Alsoused tomakewine and jam; elderberry syrup has been used for centuries by European herbalists to soothe sore throats. Elderberries are a rich source of
and immune stimulant. (for more detailed information on this amazing herb go to page 14) Codonopsis (Codonopsis pilosula) This herb, with its distinctive bell-shaped flowers, is native to north-western China, and featured in the Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic, a medical treatise which is
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ISSUE 61 • 2021
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