Herbs for Immunity
Chinese Herbs for Immunity
In the West, the idea of an immune system is less than a hundred years old, however in China, doctors were already prescribing herbal medicine to strengthen defensive energy over a thousand years ago.
The term used for 'defensive energy' in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is WEI QI.
We say that the Lungs regulate the WEI Qi, because the lungs, like the skin, are in direct contact with the external environment and protect the internal organs. That's why the Lungs are known as the umbrella organ, providing protection to the inner body from external pathogens.
Herbs with Possible Immune Enhancing Effects
The most well known of these herbs is HUANG QI, astragalus. which has many uses besides being an immune enhancer. It strengthens the Spleen, Stomach, Qi and Blood, as well as benefiting the Wei Qi (immune system). Research has shown this herb to lower blood pressure and increase endurance and immunity.
Other immune enhancers that strengthen the lungs are:
Cordyceps (DONG CHONG XIA CAO) is considered by some to be another immune-boosting herb. It has also been used to increase endurance and sexual performance.
Asian Ginseng (REN SHEN) powerfully tonifies the lung qi, digestive qi, and the “original qi”. It is the only herb believed to have the ability to extend life, making it the most prized of all herbs.
Codonopsis (DANG SHEN) Sometimes known as “poor man’s ginseng”, codonopsis has most of the functions of Asian Ginseng, except the ability to tonify the original qi (extend life)
Through these herbs are often used by themselves, Chinese herbalists discovered long ago that combining herbs into formula can create synergistic effects that potentiate the benefits of single herbs and also mitigate the unwanted side effects of these substances.
Formulas for Strengthening Immunity
The following popular formulas are used to strengthen the WEI Qi.
Information on this site is provided for educational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your own physician or another medical professional. We make no claim as to efficacy or safety of herbs or herbal medicine appearing on this site. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
