by Catarina Newman

Created on: June 30, 2009

NATURAL HEALTH REMEDIES YOU NEED TO KNOW

In addition to eating organic foods, exercising regularly and using nutritional and herbal supplements it is also important to be aware of the kinds of natural immune supporters you can take yourself. The increasing dependence on antibiotics, noxious drugs with severe side-effects, contaminated vaccines and ineffective modern medical treatments, our attempts to combat disease and control infections has boomeranged. We now have more vicious strains of bacteria and viruses to battle against and the increasing disease-related death rates are indications of our failure. The best defence we currently have is to learn to take care of ourselves and enhance the power of our immune systems. Here are some examples of natural products that can help us do this:

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous)

This traditional Chinese medicine, a member of the pea family, is incredibly effective for the human immune system, particularly in cases of respiratory infections, colds and flus, immune dysfunctions, stress-related ailments, as a complementary treatment for cancer, or just to improve and increase recovery from illnesses.

Cod Liver Oil

Cold Liver Oil is widely recognized for its positive effects on infections (like respiratory tract or ear infections) by providing natural sources of vitamins A and D as well as omega-3 fatty acids which are anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory. This is especially useful for rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, and chronic migraines.

Echinacea

Originally used by Native Americans, its active constituents seem to be highly effective on viral infections like laryngitis, cold sores (herpes zoster 1) and tonsillitis.

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

This natural product has excellent antiviral properties for fighting viral illnesses like the flu. Howver, this immune-boosting phytonutrient has also been shown to be useful for the treatment of cancer and AIDS.

Garlic (Allium sativum)

As a natural antibiotic, garlic, in relatively high doses, can be a great antifungal treatment for problems like athlete's foot, thrush or yeast infections while also stimulating the immune system.

Maitake Mushrooms (Grifola frondosa)

This Japanese mushroom, also commonly called Sheep's Head, is often recommended by traditional Chinese medicine to regulate blood pressure, glucose and insulin levels, cholesterol, and can even be used for weight loss.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

By promoting good blood circulation, reducing cholesterol and eliminating thrombi in the blood streams, this ancient Chinese mushroom has been successful in the treatment of upper respiratory infections (like bronchitis) as well as diseases related to the blood vessels (like cerebrosis and coronary heart disease)

Shiitake Mushrooms (Lentinula edodes)

Also known as the black forest mushroom, the immunological benefits of this product range from allergy treatment, to arthritis management, to cancer healing.

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