We had our first frosts here the last 2 nights and are cozying around the woodstove again. This is my cue to begin taking Vitamin D daily and up my adaptogenic herb intake for immune and adrenal health. Immediately after the cold wind blew in, I got a scratchy throat and congestion. After an extra-long night’s sleep last night, I am feeling strong. That’s a huge relief, because I was concerned that I might succumb to the H1N1 or other viruses spreading around like wildfire right now. Life is extra busy right now, of course. Isn’t that just how life goes.
As a naturopath, I want to walk my talk and radiate good health. Today, I’ll share my treatment plan for myself. This is one part of a core naturopathic philosophy: Physician Heal Thyself! Knowing from experience that this is a hard time of year for me to stay well, I began a preventative protocol a few weeks ago. I have been receiving acupuncture treatments and taking “Jade Screen,” a Chinese formula containing Astragalus and other herbs to prevent “invasion of pathogens through my wind gate”, aka getting sick. I took a dose of my constitutional homeopathic remedy last night before my long rest. I have begun taking an herbal formula that’s anti-microbial, immune modulating and helps me adapt to change and stress (the definition of adaptogenic.)
The herbal formula consists of Astragalus, Aralia, Ligusticum, Hydrastis, Sambucus, Glycerrhiza and Schisandra berries. It is an herbal tincture that I am taking 4 times daily. I’m also taking a high-potency multivitamin, bromelain and probiotic supplement, which I do everyday for “preventative maintenance.” I am eating a relatively clean, whole foods diet of warm and well-cooked foods and teas. This is what works for me. What works for you might be slightly different, so consider consulting with a Naturopathic Doctor to find out how you can best prevent illness this fall.
Margaret Philhower, ND
