Adaptogens

Some Russian researchers investigating Siberian Ginseng observed that deep immune tonics seem to generally aid the body in dealing with stress and coined the term "adaptogen" for them.

Adaptogens are used in chronic, rather then acute, conditions. They:-
enhance the immune responce
reduce inflammation
reduce blood sugar
protect against radiation and oxidation
support the endocrine system, in particular he adrenals and pitutary glands.

Adaptogens need to be used over a relatively long period of time (six weeks, for example).

Asian Ginseng Panax ginseng

deep immune tonic, stimualting adaptogen, adrenal tonic

Asian Ginseng is a "hot" remedy (best used for "cold" conditions)
never use in cancer: too hot!

North American Ginseng Panax quinquifolium

deep immune tonic, relaxing adaptogen, adrenal tonic

North American Ginseng is considered a "cold" remedy (best used for "hot" conditions)
not to be used in cancer: too cold!

Siberian Genseng Eleutherococcus senticosus

deep immune tonic, general adaptogen, circulatory tonic, surface immune stimulant, antineoplastic, adrenal tonic, pancreatic tonic

Eleuthero has most of the properties of its cousin, Ginseng, but is neither "hot" nor "cold" and is therefore of more general use.
It is a useful part of almost any immune support formulation and is helpful in chemotherapy both in reducing side effects (as an adaptogen) and in enhancing the therapeutic effects of the chemotherapy.
lowers blood sugar

Astragalus Astragalus membranaceus

deep immune tonic, general adaptogen, surface immune stimulant, antineoplastic, adrenal tonic, pancreatic tonic

synergistic with Siberian Ginseng, and with Echinacea.
It is helpful in chemotherapy both in reducing side effects (as an adaptogen) and in enhancing the therapeutic effects of the chemotherapy.

Reishi mushrooms Ganoderma lucidum

deep immune tonic, adaptogen, surface immune stimulant, antineoplastic, antiviral

may be used in small doses as a "potentizer"
should be used for 4 to 6 weeks (and then only repeated after a "holiday" of 4 to 6 weeks).
Can be used in severe immune depletion such as AIDS and cancer.
Particularly useful in lymphoma with, for instance, cleavers and phytolacca.
It is helpful in chemotherapy both in reducing side effects (as an adaptogen) and in enhancing the therapeutic effects of the chemotherapy.