Tips to Help Boost Your Immunity During a Pandemic

I have closed my practice for the month of April to help the community to further mitigate the spread of COVID-19.  Needless to say this virus is destroying humanity globally.  We must stay strong and work together to combat this virus!  I am staying home just like you.  Now we have the perfect opportunity to work on our health while we are staying home to avoid being infected.  In the morning, start with a teaspoon of Bragg's organic apple cider vinegar and 8 ounces of warm water to clean your digestive system and minimize the amount of acidity in your blood to decrease overall inflammation.  Consume more fruits like oranges, strawberries, and blueberries to boost your immune system.  Drink herbal teas with dandelion root to detoxify your body.  I also recommend taking Andrographis as a preventative to catching colds and flu.  We have used this herb in Chinese Medicine for thousands of years to treat common cold and flu symptoms.  Astragalus is another popular herb used in Chinese Medicine to help boost the immune system.  We can use this herb in soups or teas, and a little goes a long way.  Another great herb full of antioxidants is Go Ji Berry.  Place at least 10 berries in a cup of hot water, let it steep for a minute, drink the water, and eat the berries afterwards.  Go Ji Berries are great for the Liver and brighten the eyes, especially helpful in women's health.  Another herb that can help is Elderberry.  You can find this in the supplement isle at Whole Foods or Down to Earth.  Now, don't go crazy taking all of these herbs at once, you can overwhelm your system.  You can alternate from day to day.  Of course, at least 30 minutes of exercise and stretching will be beneficial along with taking antioxidants to enhance your immune system.  I also highly recommend Tai Ji, Qi Gong, or Yoga Stretch videos on YouTube.  Grab your partner or your pet, and get moving.  I hope this will be helpful, for you and your family.  I wish the best for everyone to stay safe and healthy during this unprecedented global crisis, and hope to see you all real soon!

~Mei-Lin Maunakea

~Image Credit to Pegleess Barrios