Five Chinese Herbs to Treat all Winter Sickness

Today marks the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar.

But before the dim sum dining and festive parades begin, consider exploring another side of the civilization’s history.

Traditional Chinese herbal medicine remains one of the oldest documented forms of medicine on the planet, explains New York-based medical herbalist Daniela Turley.

Even some modern drugs, like Tamiflu, have been derived from each one of these herbal remedies.

Natural herbs can be surprisingly potent, meaning they’re best integrated into your diet under the supervision of an expert--Turley sees clients for custom consultations in her Manhattan office--but almost everybody can benefit from integrating the right blend in their nutrition plan.

Here are five favored ingredients for tackling what ails you, in the sluggish immunity system to some bad memory, just in time for the year of the rooster.

The Herb: Astragalus Root
What It’s Good For: The Common Cold (and More) As probably the most commonly prescribed herbs, Astragalus is generally used to prevent infections.

It’s seen as possibly the most strong spleen and lung tonics, notes Turley, that, for her part, urges it to clients who're in need of digestion aid.

It’s also beneficial for fighting off the common cold: At the very first indication of a sore throat or stuffy nose, then add a couple drops of it to warm water for a soothing tea.

The Herb: Schisandra Berry
What It’s Good For: Mood and Memory

This ancient berry, once famously consumed by Taoist masters and Oriental royalty to enhance brain activity, is among the few herbs that's said to balance the mind and spirit, says Turley, who adds that has been shown to improve memory.

Even though somewhat more subjective in the eye of the beholder, it’s also called a beauty tonic and has been considered to assist preserve youth.

The Herb: Ginkgo
What It’s Good For: Allergies and Urban Pollution

This herb has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties, highlighting the supplement’s power to help with asthma and allergies.

With leaves that contain significant levels of free radical--fighting anti-oxidants and flavonoids, it might help improve eye health.
Similarly, if you’re “exposed to high levels of pollution, you might wish to give Gingko an attempt."

The Herb: Panax Ginseng
What It’s Good For: Fatigue and Stress

Perhaps possibly the most well-known herbs in the world, Ginseng has a wide selection of beneficial properties. It's been extensively studied and shown to increase endurance, lower anxiety, and also stabilize blood sugar.

Notes the importance of checking with a physician prior to carrying it out since Ginseng can socialize with a great deal of drugs, including a high intake of caffeine.
Once removed by your medical practitioner, a few droplets in a glass of water can also provide a increase of morning energy.

The Herb: Medicinal Mushrooms
What It’s Good For: Immunity

There is an assortment of mushrooms used in traditional Chinese Medicine. Each has a slightly different character, but it has been shown to help improve immunity and prevent cancer.

According to Turley, the easiest and most accessible type is shiitake found in most grocery stores and specialty food stores.
Suppress inflammation and take it when you are stressed.

Take mushrooms as supplements, or eat mushrooms with coconut oil for a delicious, mood-laden meal, and put one or more kale in the pan.