About ten days ago, I started to get a sore throat. I'd be fine all day, but in the evening it would start to hurt to swallow. This happened for about three days, and then it started to become an all day dry/sore throat. I started taking echinacea (simply because I had it on hand, although I never find it help me much... it's great for some people, for others it's not very effective). I was using a throat spray form, as well as some supplements throughout the day. But, not surprisingly, it wasn't getting better, and I was starting to develop a bit of a dry cough. I could feel the onset of a cold, and frankly I just do not have time to get sick. So, on Tuesday night, I stopped by the Big Carrot Dispensary (they have EVERYTHING there, and very knowledgeable sales reps to help you out) to pick up some throat lozenges (do you know how hard it is to find throat drops that are not filled with sugar? I finally found one called HerbOn that are made with zylitol for the sweetener), and while I was there I askeda bout anything that might help since echinacea isn't doing it for me.
That's when I was introduced to St Francis Herb Farm: DeepImmune herbal tincture. I used it Tuesday night, 3 times on Wed, and a couple times on Thursday, and by Thursday I was already feeling like the sore throat is about 99% gone. Fantastic stuff! You simply take about 1-2 droppers full in a small amount of water between meals (at least 30 min before eating, and 2 hours after).Ingredients:
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) - Although more evidence is needed, one of the way astraglus is thought to work is by increasing the production of immune cells. It may also have mild antiviral activity and help with the prevention of colds. May also help lower blood pressure. NOTE: People with autoimmune conditions should not use it unless under the recommendation of a qualified healthcare practitioner.
Codonopsis (Codonopsis pilosula) - has blood building qualities, making it especially good for people who are weakened due to illness, and is extremely effective at relieving chronic fatigue. It is also useful for those who wish to strengthen their digestive and respiratory functions. It is especially useful for peopel who tend to become short winded or cough easily due to deficient lung energy and for people who become congested after a meal or who digest inefficiently.
Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) - Regular consumption of red Reishi can enhance our body's immune system and improve blood circulation, thus improving overall health. Generally Reishi is recommended as an adaptogen, immune modulator, and general tonic. Red Reishi is also used to help treat anxiety, high blood pressure, hepatitis, bronchitis, insomnia, and asthma.
Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) - in Chinese medicine, used to prevent respiratory tract infections, cold, flu, and to provide energy and vitality. Also used for stamina and energy for Olympic Athletes.
Ligustrum (Ligustrum lucidum) - stimulates the immune system, decreases inflammation, and protects the liver.
Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) - Among other things, schisandra is claimed to be beneficial against PMS, helpful in arousing immune protection, facilitate recuperation after surgeries, stabilize blood sugar and blood pressure, provide additional energy during anxiety and tension, and improve vigor.
White Atractylodes (Atractylodes macrocephala) - used to treat physical and mental fatigue, diarrhea, edema, dizziness and vomiting. Has long lasting diuretic effect, and has ability to lower blood sugar levels. In traditional Chinese medicine, used as a tonic, and to support the functions of kidney, bladder, and digestive system.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza spp.) - an adaptogenic herb, meaning it helps people during stressful times and recovery from illness and fatigue. Stimulates adrenal gland and activation of the body's energy reserves. Leads to increased energy, mental and physical performance. This response can deplete the body after a while, and can increase heart rate and blood pressure, so used in moderation. Also contains substances that regulate blood sugar, helping enhance energy. A demulcent - an agent that coats and protects mucosal surfaces. In the respiratory tract, licorice decreases cough, speeds removal of mucus, and helps to heal the tract. In the stomach and intestines DGL licorice protects the lining from ulceration. Also has anti-inflammatory properties and weak estrogen hormonal balancing activity.
References
Astragalus, Codonopsis, Reishi , Eleuthero, Ligustrum, Schisandra, White Atractylodes, Licorice
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