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| Herb/Supplement | Amount To Take | How It Works | Comments |
| Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) | 3–5 ml of tincture three times per day. | Polysaccharides (complex sugar molecules) in this herb enhance the activity of certain immune system cells, including white blood cells. | This herb also can be taken daily as a decoction, by boiling approximately 10 grams of the root in water for five minutes, then drinking as a tea. |
| Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) | Take 2–3 grams of dried, powdered root and rhizomes daily. Or take 300–400 mg of concentrated solid extract standardized to eleutherosides B and E daily. Another option is 8–10 ml of an alcohol-based extract taken a few times a day. | Polysaccharides and compounds called eleutherosides support immune function; this herb also supports healthy adrenal glands to counteract the effects of stress. | Side effects are uncommon but can include diarrhea and insomnia. Traditionally, two-week breaks are recommended for every two months of daily eleuthero use. |
| Garlic(Allium sativum) | About one raw clove per day, or chop and add to the end of the cooking process. Another option is tablet or capsule form; follow label directions. | Garlic increases resistance to disease by stimulating the immune system, including white blood cells, natural killer cells, and phagocytes; it has a direct antimicrobial effect by inhibiting growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. | Garlic is very safe to use, although a few people experience heartburn or flatulence. |
| Mushrooms: cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis), maitake (Grifola frondosa), reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), and shiitake (Lentinus edodes) | Whole, dried mushrooms can be included in cooking. Alternatively, 2–4 ml of tincture can be taken daily in tablet or capsule form; follow label directions. | Polysaccharides primarily account for immune-enhancing effects. | Adverse effects with mushrooms are unlikely, but reishi and cordyceps have been occasionally reported to cause dizziness, dry mouth, and upset stomach; shiitake in high doses has in a few cases been linked to diarrhea. |
| Probiotics | Active-culture yogurt can be eaten as part of the diet. Alternatively, capsules, powders, and liquids are available and generally taken in the amount of 1–2 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) per day. | Probiotics inhibit the growth of bacteria, produce natural substances that kill infectious microorganisms, colonize the gut with a healthy balance of intestinal flora, and enhance the activity of several immune system cells. | Probiotics need to be consumed at least a few times a week to be beneficial. Generally well-tolerated, though reactions include flatulence and constipation. |
| Sterols/sterolins | 60 mg per day. | Sterols and sterolins act on specific white blood cells in the immune system called lymphocytes to ensure the proper balance in the body. | For maximum absorption, take at least 45 minutes before a meal or two hours after a meal. Diabetics should monitor their blood sugar and adapt their insulin level as needed because sterols and sterolins can lower blood sugar levels. |
—V.D.T |
