Herbs for Immune System

Question 1

Key herbal actions for the immune system

Answer 1

• Immunomodulator:

Balances and strengthens immunity i.e. Astragalus.

• Immune-enhancing:

Increases immune responses i.e. Echinacea.

• Anti-inflammatory:

Reduces inflammation i.e. Turmeric.

Question 2

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)

Answer 2

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus):

• Parts used: Root.
• Energetics: Warm.
• Key constituents: Triterpenoid saponins.
• Actions and uses: Immune modulating / enhancing (↑ lymphocyte and phagocyte activity, as well as IgA levels), tonic, adaptogen, cardiotonic (hypotensive, antioxidant), anti-cancer (antiproliferative); chronic/recurrent infections, infection preventative, leukopenia, post-viral syndrome, fatigue, mild heart failure.
• Intake: 9–30 g / day dried root. Products as per label.
• Safety: Avoid in acute phases of infection (as its adaptogenic)

Question 3

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea / angustifolia)

Answer 3

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea / angustifolia):

• Parts used: Root.
• Energetics: Warm.
• Key constituents: Alkylamides, polysaccharides.
• Actions and uses: immune enhancing / modulating (alkylamides bind to cannibinoid (CB) receptors, esp. CB2 — a possible mechanism of their immunomodulatory properties; activate phagocytes and NK cells; stimulates IL-10 but inhibits TNF-α), antiinflammatory (LOX and COX inhibitors); acute infections – bacterial, viral (e.g., influenza, tonsilitis, UTIs); infection prevention, arthritis.
• Safety: Caution with immunosuppressant drugs