Natural Immunomodulators: Astragalus and Reishi mushroom

Currently there is a growing interest in the use of various medicinal plants as modulators of the complex immune system. Modern research interest has focused on various herbs that possess immune-stimulating and immune-regulating properties as a useful feature in helping diminish the risk of various diseases and cancer.

What is Astragalus and which health benefits are achieved with supplementation?

Astragalus is a medicinal herb used in traditional Chinese medicine. It contains over 120 different components, primarily flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides as the main bioactive components, but also contains sucrose, amino acids, and phenolic acid. The steroidal saponin (Astragaloside) content of Astragalus can influence immunity system function and health. The flavonoid content of Astragalus may also contribute to its cardioprotective effects. Its polysaccharide content also protects the heart because it is a potent anti-inflammatory agent, and it is able to reduce cholesterol levels.

Astragalus supplementation can provide a variety of health benefits. ?It is commonly known for its immunomodulatory interactions and has demonstrated interactions with the immune system. Astragalus polysaccharide appears to induce secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and stimulate immune cell production when there is no pro-inflammatory insult, but actively prevent large pro-inflammatory signals from acting on macrophages that would induce large spikes of inflammation. There is biological plausibility for Astragalus' claim to be an 'immune system modulator'.

What immunity benefits are associated with the Reishi mushroom consumption?

The Reishi mushroom or Ganoderma Lucidum holds a significant place in a variety of Asian traditional medicine.Traditionally used for almost everything, its real benefits tend to be more focused on immunity, sickness, and cancer treatment.

The Reishi mushroom is able to reduce immune system activity when the system is overstimulated, and bolster the immune system when it is weakened. In general, it increases the amount of active immune system cells. It has been shown to be an effective adjunct therapy, which means it improves health when taken alongside other medications, for breast cancer, hepatitis, fatigue syndrome and prostate cancer.

Additionally studies have shown that supplementing Ganoderma lucidum reduces the chances of cancer metastasis. Natural Killer (NK) cells are immune cells that exhibit cytotoxicity towards certain cells such as tumor cells and are a mechanism by which cancer therapy can be undergone vicariously through the immune system. In particular, when tumor cells attempt to metastasis (spread to other organs) the main mechanism by which they are destroyed are via the immune system.

Following up on the latest trends in immune system preventive healthcare we have included these natural immunomodulators in our B!TONIC? products such as HIB Fur Deine Abwherkraft and 100% Yoga.