A-Z Guide for Immune Support
by Susan Pataky
When winter is in full swing, so are colds and flu. We don't often think
of movement as a viable immune support source but actually physical exercise reduces the incidence of bacterial and viral
episodes. Any amount of exercise is better than nothing at all but ideally 30 minutes a day is a great start.
Yoga has proven itself over and over again to enhance all systems
of the body as well as reduce stress. By reducing stress levels and eliciting the relaxation response yoga becomes a valuable
tool. Regular practice of some classic yoga asanas(poses) is can make the difference between "catching" cold or
remaining healthy. They are extremely effective in counteracting the negative effects placed upon the immune system from the
stress response. Thus weakening our resistance to ward off microbes.
Rhino
virus, in the early stages can bring congestion, headache, fever, scratchy throat, etc. It is spread by droplet infection
and has a 1-2 day incubation period. Recovery can take 1-2 weeks and complications can result in pneumonia or bronchitis.
This secondary infection may need antibiotic treatment. Based upon which symptoms are expressed a yoga routine is formulated
to practice daily in your home.
These yoga asanas(poses) can be performed
while in the thros of a cold or flu and are very different than ones generally performed in a publicly offered yoga
class. They are categorized as Restorative asanas. Props are utilized to support the body/mind system more deeply. Again the
selection of asanas is based exclusively on the symptoms one is experiencing. The subtleties and nuances of the restorative
poses are customized and fine-tuned for each individual on an ‘as needed' basis. This can safely be done with a trained
yoga professional to insure that each asana selected is appropriate and that every pose is totally comfortable so one's body
can truly relax, rest and/restore
Various breathing
exercises(pranayama) may also be appropriate based on individual symptoms. It is quite beneficial to support lung function
at this time.This may include the use of a Neti Pot for nasal lavage. A saline solution which washes the nares and sinus cavitites.
This technique has been utilized for centuries and has seen a revival of implementation recently for the reduction of sinus
infections and allergies.
A-Z
guide for Immune Support
Astragulus (A. membranaceous)-Possess
strong immune-restorative effects. Increases production and function of white blood cells(WBC)
Baptisia
tinctoria(Wild Indigo)-Stimulates immune system. Helps prevent common cold and alleviate
its symptoms. Alleviates Laryngitis, Pharyngitis & Tonsillitis
Cats Claw(Una de Gato)-Anti-viral properties. Stimulates body's production of Helper-T cells. A type of white blood cell that helps
stimulate immune system reactions.
Diet-Eliminate caffeine, processed
& "fast" foods. Limit alcohol intake. Add organic fresh food. Broil or bake meats and Eat your Veggies!
Echinacea-Anti-viral. Helps prevent influenza and can reduce flu symptoms. Increases serum WBC counts when lower than
normal. Accelerates recovery from many bacterial & viral pathogens. Best used at onset of symptoms
Full
spectrum light- Sunlight exposure increases production of Interleukin 12 which activates
TH 1-Helper T cells.
Goldenseal- (Hydrastis Canadensis)Take
once feeling rotten.(on day 2-3) or if symptoms of mucus, flem are present. Antibiotic properties. Can be used in combination
with Echinacea. Contra: Pregnancy and sugar sensitive individuals
Hearty Belly laugh-Increases WBC activity. Mental state can effect immune system. Surround yourself with people who make you
laugh. Rent movies that make you laugh.
Intestinal health-Multi-strain
Probiotic to balance gut flora with benefical bacteria.
Juice-
Beta-carotene has been shown to enhance immune functions in humans. Either tomato (providing high amounts of lycopene) or
carrot juice (providing high amounts of alpha- and beta-carotene)
Korean Ginseng(panax)- adaptogenic-Improves overall function of immune sysytem. Increases stamina.Strengthens Lungs. Increases RBC.
Can reduce fever.
Lavender Oil-Inhalation relaxes, alleviates
cough & cold symptoms. Also Oregano, Lemon, Melaleuca, Thyme, Frankincense, Eucalyptus and Cinnamon Bark oils.
Movement- walking, stretching-Keep physical exercise gentle if in full expression of symptoms.
Naps- assists the immune system to work efficiently. Increases T-cell which enhance immune system.
Oscillococcinum®-Homeopathic remedy. Great at 1st signs of symptoms.
Positive Attitude-studies show fewer colds-Psych
Med 65:652-57:jul 03.
Q 10(CoQ-10)- powerful anti-oxidant, anti-viral. Can increase the immune systems ability to clear invading organisms from
the blood 2x. Also double the level of antibodies to improve resistance to viral infection.(By age 50 our CoQ level is ½
what it was at 20y/o)
Reishi Mushroom-Adaptogenic- for long term immune boosting. Take throughout
flu season for protection. Nourishes vital energy, lowers inflammation in Bronchitis. Alleviates fatigue.
Sambucus
nigra(Elderberry)-prevents the replication of ALL 3 strains of influenza causing
viruses. Taken early prevents symptoms from taking hold.
Time-‘out'-Take a break and focus on your breath. Start w/2min of deep diaphragmatic(belly) breathing.
Ulmus-(Slippery
Elm)-An expectorant. Soothes irritated throats. Alleviates Pharyngitis/Laryngitis.
Vitamins-Take a good multi-vitamin. C,A,E,D & B1,5,6 are needed to stimulate, strengthen and enhance immune system.
Especially if appetite is diminished.
Water- Irrigates and cleanses
Kidneys. Always important for bodily functions. Keeps germ trapping mucus membranes moist & effective.
Xi-Yang-Shen(American
Ginseng)-Stimulates Immune system. Counteracts toxic effects of excessive stress.
Alleviates fatigue & nervousness and increase stamina.
Yoga- Enhances
all systems of the body.
Zinc(picolinate)-a critical
mineral and known immune booster, especially lozenge form. Researchers in U.S. and England showed sucking zinc lozenges can
cut colds to on average 4 days. But more is not better. Studies also show that over 300mg/d depresses Immune system.
