Feeling a little under the weather? Before making an appointment to see your doctor, you might give Oregon’s Wild Harvest Immuni Tea a try first. The tea, which is made with organic herbs, claims itself as “the original immune booster,” and there may be some truth to it. Although the tea has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration, the gluten-free beverage, which can be served hot or cold, contains many herbs that can boost your immune system and get you on the road to recovery. Below is a list of ingredients, paired with what each can do to help your body prevent illness or heal.
A cup of Immuni Tea may improve your health in a variety of ways.
Photo by alittlething/Courtesy Flickr
• Peppermint leaf (Mentha piperita): According to the Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, this cool, refreshing herb can help ease inflamed tissues and calm muscle spasms and cramps. It also has all-around pain-relieving properties that can help with anything from headaches to toothaches.
• Green tea (Camellia sinensis): Green tea has been around for centuries, and there’s good reason to keep in your kitchen as well. Studies have shown that green tea may reduce your risk of multiple types of cancers. It can also help lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease. Those interested in losing weight may also turn to green tea for help. The herb increases energy levels, which promotes fat oxidation, therefore helping with weight control.
• Grape root (Mahonia spp.): This herb contains a compound known as berberine, and you want it on your side when you’re feeling ill. It is known to have strong antibiotic effects. Grape root also inhibits the growth of streptococcal bacteria, which are the main cause of some forms of pneumonia.
• Rosehips (Rosa canina): A dozen roses from a loved one may do more than just bring a smile to your face. Rosehips are the edible, nutritious fruit of the deciduous rose. They contain large amounts of vitamin C, which can help build the body’s defense mechanisms against a number of ailments, including colds and flu, sore throats and chest infections as well. Rosehips are also known to ease the pain associated with menstruation.
• Calendula flower (Calendula officinalis): The calendula flower is mostly used as an aid to your digestive system. It is helpful when treating ulcers, stomach cramps, yeast infections and diarrhea.
• Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): Echinacea can do your body nothing but good. It is used to help boost your immune system and fight off infections.
• Goldenseal rhizome (Hydrastis canadensis): According to the Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, for centuries this herb has been considered a cure-all in the world of medicinal herbs. Its main uses include digestion promotion and stimulation of the liver, kidneys and lungs. It can also help lower blood pressure.
• Red clover (Trifolium pratense): Simply walk outside into your yard, and you’ll probably come across this common meadow herb. Red clover, which is related to the Irish shamrock, has been used to treat inflammations of the skin such as psoriasis and eczema. It also helps stimulate the liver and gall bladder, so it is often used to help relieve constipation.
