The Power of Mushrooms
For building the immune system, mushrooms are great. Start by incorporating more fresh organic mushrooms in your diet. Shitake and Maitake mushrooms are two important mushrooms that can usually be found fresh. (Both are available at our local San Rafael Farmer’s Market on Sundays at the Civic Center). Other important mushrooms for building immune strength include Reishi, Chaga, Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps, all of which can be found as teas or extracts.
Astragalus
Another important immune-building herb is Astragalus. Astragalus membranaceus, known as Huang-qi, has been used for thousands of years as a Traditional Chinese Medicine for strengthening the body against disease. It has a special affinity for the lungs, so is especially important for people who tend toward upper respiratory problems. Astragalus root has little flavor of its own and can easily be added to soups and stews, or a simmering crock of hot apple cider.
Elderberry
One of our important native plants, Elderberry is an important preventative medicine because of it’s anti-viral properties. Elderberry syrup is downright delicious and suitable for young children. See my previous blog entry on the virtues of this wonderful plant.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a great immune stimulant to use when you have a cold or the flu. It works best when in a formula with an herb such as ginger to help it circulate through your system. Echinacea extract should be taken frequently – every 2 hours – until symptoms subside.
Herbal Steams
Herbal steams work wonders for nasal congestion. Pour boiling water into a large bowl. Add a drop of any of the following essential oils – eucalyptus, thyme, lavender or oregano (to name a few). Cover your head with a towel and drape it over the bowl, creating a tent. Inhale the vapors for 15 minutes. Add another drop or two of essential oil if necessary. If you don’t have access to essential oils, try a large handful of crushed fresh bay or eucalyptus leaves or rosemary. All these herbs have antimicrobial properties and help loosen mucous in your lungs and nasal passages, making it easier to breathe.
Sore Throats and Coughs
My favorite tea for sore throats and coughs is “Throat-Coat” by Traditional Medicinals. It contains slippery elm and licorice, both very helpful in soothing throat discomfort and easing coughs. Gargling with warm salt water can also help a sore throat to feel better.
Get plenty of rest… drink plenty of fluids… warm broths and soups – all good things we can do for ourselves when we don’t feel good.
Fire Cider
This recipe is an inexpensive, effective way to treat or stave off colds & flus, and to break up congestion. It has been credited to many different herbalists, including the late Dr. Christopher, and there have been many variations of the recipe over the years. From the recipe below, you can see why it’s called “Fire Cider.” My husband loves this remedy!
How to Make Fire Cider
Ingredients:
1 quart Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
1/2 cup Horseradish root grated
1/8 cup of Garlic chopped
1/2 cup of Onion chopped
1/2 cup of Ginger grated
1 tsp Cayenne
Directions:
1. Place all ingredients in a quart jar and cover with Apple Cider Vinegar.
2. Cover tightly.
3. Steep for a minimum of 4 weeks.
4. Strain into clean jar.
How to Use Your Fire Cider?
* Rub into sore muscles and aching joints.
* Soak a clean cloth in Fire Cider to place on a congested chest.
* Drink it straight or diluted in a bit of water or tomato juice.
* Mix with a bit of honey to ease a cough.
Individual tolerance to the heat will vary so you and your family will want to experiment with quantity.
NOTE: Immune tonics and Elderberry Syrup can be purchased directly from me. Call 415-488-1529 to inquire, or shoot me an email at nrbotanicals@gmail.com
