As the season changes, and we prepare to face winter’s health challenges by strengthening the immune system, we turn to three groups of herbs:

Adaptogens
Holy basil has long been used in Ayurvedic medicine for the mind and nervous system. It lifts the spirits, increases clarity of thought, and helps dispel depression. This adaptogenic spice reduces mental fog associated with drug use, menopause, and chronic stress. It is also antiviral, antidepressant, and carminative (or gas dispelling).

Shisandra berry is a powerful adaptogen, strengthening hypothalamic, pituitary, and adrenal functions, while normalizing nervous system and immune activity. A mild, nonhabit-forming stimulant, it enhances work and athletic performance and stimulates metabolism. Rich in anti-inflammatory flavonoids, it is useful for mild asthma with wheezing and is a powerful liver-protective agent.

Licorice root, used since ancient times in China and the Middle East, is an adaptogen, demulcent, expectorant, antiviral, and antidepressant. Licorice strengthens endocrine function, especially the adrenals, ovaries, pancreas, and hypothalamus, making it useful for chronic fatigue syndrome, menopausal symptoms, hypoglycemia, and autoimmune conditions.

Immune Stimulants
Echinacea is indicated for acute viral or bacterial infection such as colds, flu, bronchitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis, otitis media, and sore throats. Echinacea is also used for acute prostatitis, lymphadenitis, and mastitis.

Elderberries, rich sources of antioxidants, have been shown in clinical trials to inhibit viruses, especially influenza.

Andrographis has long been used in both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for its powerful antiviral activity. This herb is a bitter tonic, immune stimulant, liver protector, cholagogue (bile mover), and anti-inflammatory. It can be used for colds, influenza, sore throats, hepatitis, and other viral infections.

Immune Potentiators
Mushrooms such as maitake or reishi are rich sources of immune-stimulating polysaccharides. These compounds, studied since the 1950s, have been found to increase macrophages and killer T-cells activity, thus inhibiting viruses.

Astragalus strengthens the immune reservoir. A superior tonic used for rebuilding depleted endocrine or immune activity, it is especially useful for chronic lung deficiency.

Also critical is a healthy diet. Eat garlic, onions, carotenoid-rich foods, sulphur-containing foods, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dietary bitters, healthy fats, organic meats in moderation, and wild fish. Avoid fried and junk foods, along with refined carbohydrates. Low vitamin D intake strongly increases risk of catching viral diseases. And make healthy lifestyle choices: sleep seven to eight hours a night, exercise, wash hands frequently, get sunlight, avoid smoking, and work to reduce stress.