Natural Healers- Immunity and Infection.

    This article is going to look- broadly- at plants that can protect our immune systems and fight infection.
  First off is Aloe Vera; this contains acemannan, which is effective against the herpes virus.The useful part of the plant is the gel, which can be obtained by breaking off a leaf, peeling it and scooping the gel out. As a drink, the gel can be blitzed in a food processor, with apple juice and drunk fresh.

 It soothes coughs and bronchial asthma and its antiseptic properties can help heal a sore throat. For the stomach, it balances the intestinal flora, can help with coping with IBS, and is a laxative. It blocks the formation of histamine to act as a remedy for allergic conditions. The salicylic acid it contains is useful for general aches and pains. A gargle is good for gingivitis.  For minor burns or cuts, break off a leaf and apply the gel. It speeds up the healing process, and can also be used to treat skin problems and sunburn.
  Asparagus helps with healthy gut flora, and has mild laxative and diuretic properties. It protects against the action of free-radicals, promoting a healthy immune response.
  Blackcurrants have similar anti-biotic properties to cranberries and can fight UTIs. Vitamin C and antioxidants make it a good tonic, and it retains its

beneficial qualities if made into a syrup or cordial.
  Chocolate. Oh, now I've got your attention. The same amount of antioxidants can be found in chocolate as can be found in red wine. Chocolate supports overall immunity and intestinal immunity. It can ease coughs- the theobromine in it is more effective than codeine. It also helps ease gastrointestinal upsets.
  Organic is best- your bog-standard chocolate has usually received at least 30 different pesticides before it gets to you; cacao nibs are also a good way of getting the goodness. And dark chocolate has more anti-oxidants.
  Dandelions are rich in antioxidants- see here for the previous blog, and here for garlic.
  Kiwi fruit and Mangoes are rich in vitamin C that boosts immunity. The average size mango carries two thirds of your daily requirement. It also contains compounds that are thought to be effective against prostate and skin cancer.
  Rocket also has high levels of vitamin C, and of beta-carotene. Digestion releases isothiocynates that protect against cancer. It stimulates digestion and protects against stomach ulcers, and may help to reduce the risk of macular degeneration. At one time it was used in cough syrup.
  Spelt is higher in vitamin B3 (Niacin) than standard wheat (Niacin aids energy metabolism). It has antibacterial properties, which help strengthen the body against disease. It also supports the adrenal glands and improves circulation, lowers LDL cholestrol levels and regulates blood sugar levels.
  Tea is a powerful anti-oxidant, anti bacterial and anti viral. The green and Oolong teas may have anti allergy properties and may help against eczema. Green tea is thought to protect against breast cancer, while both green and black tea may prevent some cancer cells forming. Use organic tea, green or black. Yes, it's those pesticides again,
  Papaya seeds have been found effective against E. Coli, salmonella and staphylococcus. They also appear to get rid of internal parasites. The juice of the papaya helps restore good bacteria in the stomach. The seeds are edible fresh or dry, and can add a peppery flavour to cooking. (Papain is a protein dissolving enzyme extracted from the unripe fruit. It is used for digestive complaints and pain relief and helps prevent ulcers)
  Peas are a good source of iron and vitamin C. A single serving supplies half your daily needs of vitamin C. Peas and pea-shoots also contain anti-oxidants that can inhibit H Pylori (which can cause ulcers and cancers). The glycodeli-A  contained in mange-tout may improve male fertility.

  Sweet potatoes are a traditional treatment for diabetes. They are high in beta-carotene and vitamin C and may provide anti-cancer benefits. Eat them with the skins on, boiled or steamed, and with a little butter or oil. The purple sweet potatoes can protect against IBS and ulcerative colitis.
  Of course this isn't an exhaustive list. If you want a longer one, may I suggest Jekka McVicar's Herb Book
and/or Neal's Yard's Healing Foods