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| posed of chains of sugar subunits. Polysaccharides are structural components of many organisms; until recently they did not excite much interest among Western physicians, because conventional wisdom holds that they cannot even be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. But polysaccharides are a common feature of many herbal medicines that enhance immunity, even though we do not yet understand their properties. |
| Astragalus is an excellent herb for athletes and active individuals who suffer from chronic infections, such as bronchitis and sinusitis. It is also beneficial to individuals who are lacking energy, or feeling vulnerable to stress or overtraining. Astragalus is found in many health food stores; follow the doses recommended on the label. |
| Ginger |
| Like turmeric and garlic, ginger (Zingiber officinale) is known to most people as a spice rather than as a medicinal plant. Ginger has been used for hundreds of years in Indian and Chinese medicine for its tonifying and energizing properties. Today it is better known for its ability to settle an upset stomach, stimulate digestion and relieve aches and pains. |
| Ginger improves the digestion of proteins, is an effective treatment for nausea and motion sickness and protects against intestinal parasites and strengthens the mucosal lining. It is also a powerful herb to help mediate healing and strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation. |
| Ginger can be taken in the form of the fresh rhizome or in honey based syrups, or encapsulated extracts. It is often consumed as a tea or found in honey syrup and added to hot water or other drinks. When dried, its chemistry changes, with the dried form having more anti-inflammatory properties and analgesic effects. Therefore, if you are suffering from an inflammatory condition you may benefit from the dried powder form or ginger in capsules. Follow the directions on the label of the particular brand of ginger you are consuming. |
| While many of the herbs listed above are used to strengthen the immune system and fight free-radical damage, as we will see in the next section they can be used in conjunction with other herbs to reduce pain and inflammation. |
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