Immunity Herbs

The cold and flu season is in full swing, and I’ve already seen or heard of several who have been sick. It is helpful to know some herbs and healthy ways to deal with infections so we do not have to resort to harmful antibiotics or drugs. Here are a few GREAT herbs to have on hand and use when needed.

Lomatium DissectumThis herb was extensively used by Native Americans in the Northwest U.S. for colds, flu and upper respiratory infections. In 1917, Dr. Ernst Krebs, M.D., who lived in Nevada, discovered that people of the Washoe nation seemed to be recovering well from an influenza epidemic, while others were dying.  He asked some of the elders about their medicine, and they showed him this herb and taught him how to prepare it. He then saw others recover from the influenza instead of dying. It is a powerful antiviral, antibiotic, and anti-fungal, and can be used as a preventive, or to get rid of that cold, now! It has been used effectively for the herpes virus, flu, respiratory infections, kidney infections, candida, and more.  

Coriandar/Cilantro The presence of anti-oxidants, rich phytonutrients, minerals, and vitamins in coriander, all work synergistically to boost the body’s overall immunity. Research has shown that coriander oil has the ability to kill serious bacteria such as E. coli, MRSA, salmonella and bacillus cereus. Out of 12 tested strains, every bacteria strain showed reduced growth, and most were killed in solutions containing only 1.6% coriander oil!  Coriander oil works by damaging the membrane of the bacterial cell, causing cell death, according to the Journal of Medical Microbiology study.  Back in 2004, a study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry showed the compound dodecenal (found in coriander) was twice as effective as the commonly used antibiotic drug, gentamicin, at killing salmonella!

Elderberries   Elderberries contain compounds that inhibit the enzyme flu viruses from penetrating our cell membranes and also prevents the virus from invading respiratory tract cells. Taken early enough, as a tea or tincture, you may be able to head off an upcoming illness before it becomes a full-blown flu. They are especially good for bronchitis, colds, coughing, and influenza.

Astragalus RootAstragalus root stimulates the immune system, and has an anti-viral agent that helps the body destroy viruses and other harmful microbes. It has been used to treat colds, upper respiratory infections, cancer, asthma, and nervous conditions, as well as to lower blood sugar and blood pressure and boost energy levels.

We have all these herbs available for you.

We’re here to help you!Amy Willis, Your Local Herbalist

October 5, 2015