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| is an excellent herb to take during outbreaks of colds and flu, while training for athletic events and in times of stress or overwork. It is available in tinctures and capsules and is also a popular ingredient in blends, especially those designed for the immune system. For everyday use as an immune-stimulating tonic, take I capsule 2 or 3 times daily or up to 1 teaspoon of tincture daily. To treat a cold, the flu or any acute infection, take up to 3 capsules 3 times daily or up to 1 teaspoon of tincture 3 times daily. |
| No dangerous side effects have been reported, but some astragalus users have experienced mild diarrhea or abdominal bloating. Reducing the dosage eliminates these symptoms. |
| Echinacea (E. purpurea, E. angustifolia) |
| One of America's best-selling herbs, the purple coneflower (E. purpurea) and its close cousin, the narrow-leaved coneflower (E. angustifolia), are often recommended for the treatment of colds and flu. Echinacea is most effective in combatting infections when taken in large doses in capsules or tincture for short periods, such as 1 cup of tea or 1 teaspoon tincture every hour for one or two days. For best results, use a tincture made from the fresh rather than dried plant; look for a dark color, sharp fragrance and pungent taste. The entire echinacea plant is medicinal, from dramatic blossom to leaf, stem, seed and roots. |
| Grapefruit Seed Extract or Citrus Seed Extract |
| Originally developed as a natural fungicide to preserve fresh fruits during shipping, grapefruit seed extract has become a popular alternative to antibiotic drugs and a widely tested disinfectant. Laboratory tests show that dilute solutions of the extract, which is extremely bitter tast- |
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