Deep Immunity - Understanding Your Body's Immune System

By Anthony J. Godfrey, BVSc., DTVM, Ph.D, ND

In traditional Chinese Medicine, extreme weather conditions were considered to be one of the major challenges to the immune system. We know that we are more likely to get sick when the weather changes suddenly. Spring and fall are two such times, and special remedies were prepared for the change of seasons. Astragalus and Codonopsis were usually included in these remedies.

For the Chinese, extreme heat or cold, extreme dampness or dryness, and the effects of wind and summer humidity are all considered very stressful. Since these challenges come from outside the body, herbs such as Astragalus, which strengthen the defences of the body at the skin surface, were considered especially valuable. It is not easily explained physiologically how this works, but there is no doubt that Astragalus and herbs with similar actions increase our defensive energy.

My clients who use this formula tell me that not only can they resist the challenges of the weather, but that they are less affected by negative people, noise, and other energetic stressors. These remedies support our spiritual identity and strengthen our “presence.”

But what qualities in herbs help to build an effective immune formula? First, proven immune activity. The herbs must be able to support the immune system by making it more precise, more responsive, and more efficacious. In addition to this general response, if we know plants which have proven antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal or anticancer effects as well, then these would be very attractive to us. Astragalus and Reishi both have such specific actions.

The chosen herbs must also support the terrain. Each of the Chinese botanicals featured in a formula like Deep Immune does this very effectively. (Ed note: Deep Immune is a tonic formulated by Dr. Godfrey for St. Francis Herb Farm.) It is essential to select the ones which both support the immune system in a balanced way and together optimally support the terrain. In fact, some herbs may be included which may not be recognized for any specific immune activity, but which are generally useful in support of the terrain.