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| Materia Medica for the Immune System |
| The world of herbs offers a multitude of green allies for enhancing immunity. In every culture around the globe, herbs have been used for thousands of years as the primary form of health care. Unlike drugs, herbs address more than just the biochemical aspects of immunity. From teas and tinctures to foods and flower essences, herbs embody the energy and spirit of a plant and correspond to human energetic patterns. |
| A concise listing of herbs to enhance immunity would be nearly impossible, since a great many aspects of immunity are addressed by literally hundreds of herbs. The herbs listed here represent those that cover a broad spectrum of immune ailments and are fairly easy to obtain. |
| Astragalus |
| (Astragalus membranaceus) |
| Part used: Root |
| Actions: Antitumor, energy tonic, stops sweating |
| Indications: Although there are about 200 species of astragalus that are native to the United States, most are toxic and it is only Astragalus membranaceus that is used medicinally. A Chinese species of milk vetch (a pea family plant), astragalus has been used for thousands of years in the Orient. Frequently used as an immune system stimulant and as a general tonic herb for the common cold, astragalus is used as a deep immune system tonic, much like echinacea. |
| Like echinacea, it increases the proliferation and activity |
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