1. Ginseng Benefit-rich ginseng is the most well-known adaptogen, but Panax ginseng or eleuthrococcus, is considered the best strain for improving mental performance, and the ability to withstand stress. This red ginseng also has antioxidant effects, antidepressant effects, and can help naturally l

What are some signs that your immune system could use a boost, or rebalance? 1. I Always have a Cold People often tell me that they always have a cold, despite taking echinacea drops or another OTC immune booster every winter. Your immune system might be weakened or distracted by something else in

Over 40% of our immune system is in the digestive tract, so what you eat is your #1 defense against bacterial and viral infections. With so many of us staying at home 24/7 these days, it’s easy to stress eat, along with the seduction of sugary, comfort foods that give the illusion of satisfaction

The immune system is made up of several different types of white blood cells, which B cells and T cells (which are lymphocytes), as well as mast cells. There are MANY signaling substance “messengers” which include antibodies, histamines, cytokines, and more. The white blood cells are made in the bo

Most of us have heard of, or even occasionally used the supplement melatonin. It is the most popular over-the-counter sleep remedy in the US, resulting in sales in excess of US $400 million during 2017. Melatonin is a hormone that is primarily released by the pineal gland in the brain and helps to r

When shopping for jewelry, do you consider what metals make up earrings, bracelets, rings, and other shiny items? A report by the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) in California detailed that cadmium was present in numerous jewelry items tested from stores including Ross, Walgreens and Nordstrom

Lactoferrin is a glycoprotein found in our immune-defense system. Human colostrum (pre-milk) has the highest concentration of lactoferrin, followed by human milk, and then cow’s milk. Because it is synthesized by the mammary glands, making it abundant in colostrum and milk, is involved in the initi

There’s no escape from leaky gut – it will affect each of us in some degree at some point in our lives. People with an MTHFR mutation or methylation issues are more likely to experience leaky gut in its more severe form. Here’s an overview of how methylation and leaky gut are connected. Methyla

Avoid sugar, honey, maple syrup or fruit juice because they immediately weaken the immune system. Avoid all dairy products: milk, cheese or yogurt as they will increase mucus. Don’t go more than 4 hours without eating something, even if it’s just soup, miso, or bone broth. No aspirin, tylenol or

Posted on November 12, 2014 Here are five of the best herbs to try out this flu season. Different remedies work for different body / blood types, but all of these have a long history of safe and promising use. Astragalus- This herb helps to build up the immune system, making it less likely that yo

Posted on November 12, 2013 While getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet low in sugar and processed foods, and getting regular exercise can help keep your immune system boosted throughout the year; sometimes we need a little help – especially during cold and flu season. These simple home reme

Well think about it…it starts around Halloween…and ends around Valentines Day… SO what is the common thread??? Hmmm…ah…oh yes, of course – – – SUGAR!!!! But let’s also consider increased stress, less sleep, more travel and just plain overindulgence…. The flu season doesn’t require a shot, so m

Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus): Astragalus is one of the antiviral herbs that works by boosting the immune system.  Taken internally, either as a capsule, tincture, or by adding it to soup.  It is known to increase your body's defense against viruses.  It is best used as prevention, so ta

This can be purchased OTC pretty much anywhere. It contains all the cannabinoids (minus THC) found in the Marijuana plant. Certain cannabinoids are anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor growth, antimicrobial, aid with sleep, stabilizes blood sugar, reduces muscle spasms and intestinal spasm. It’s just great

For more than three decades, a safe, low-cost compound has provided millions of people relief from coughing, wheezing, and thick phlegm. Of course, pharmaceutical companies long ago co-opted it for profit by incorporating it into various patented drugs (primarily as a mucolytic / mucous-thinner). NA

Our unique genetics can lead us to be more susceptible to variations in how our immune system functions. For some, that means being more likely to have allergies, or autoimmunity, or immune deficiencies. But what is important to know is that our genetic tendencies are turned on by stress. Once the b

When we become stressed, our brains signal to the adrenal glands to make nonstop cortisol. This causes a serious ripple effect throughout our bodies as it communicates to our different systems. The slightest imbalance in cortisol can cause digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, immune system flares,

I believe we should strive to make informed decisions for ourselves, and our family, rather than succumbing to peer pressure, or fear tactics to influence our actions. Being a child of the 60’s we were encouraged to always “Question Authority”. But in today's world there's far and few who dare take

Xenoestrogens are invisible but they are big endocrine disruptors (hormone imbalancers). They can steal your natural hormone balance, cause fatigue, and in addition have reproductive (weight gain, estrogen dominance, cancers, PMS, PCOS, hypothyroid) and developmental consequences. Experts say that i

Have you ever returned from a summer barbeque bugbitten and raw — only to find friends unscathed? Sometimes it seems like mosquitoes are deliberately singling you out. Unfortunately, if you are an O bloodtype that could be right. A 2004 study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology found t

Posted on December 10, 2015 Adapted from Bastyr Center for Natural Health nutrition dept. This is intended to be used to strengthen the immune system and is not designed to be hypoallergenic.  Modify as needed for your personal dietary needs.  Begin by using the following proportions, adjust as

Posted on February 5, 2014 1. Singing Research shows that singing is an effective immunity booster — even if you’re off-key. 2. Laughing According to a variety of studies, laughter activates protective T-cells and increases antibody production.  3. Stress-busters Stress is Public Enemy No. 1 when

Posted on October 29, 2011 There are critical gaps in the evidence for the effectiveness of licensed influenza vaccines in the United States. Individuals who are at risk for medical complications or people who are aged 65 years or older are especially affected by the gaps, the researchers write.