HOLISTIC HEALTH NOTEBOOK

There has been a media blitz on the dangers of swine flu, and I know that people are concerned about it. My first indications that people were worried were the questions, "What can I do to protect myself? Is this a real danger?"

Whether or not the danger is real is beyond my ability to answer. I don't know anything about influenza outbreaks.

I do believe, however, that our best protection is to build our own immune systems.

My second indication about public concern was when I ordered a supply of a well-known homeopathic flu remedy and couldn't get it. Sold out nationwide. People were on high alert. (I was able to get another homeopathic remedy that will work just as well.)

There are too many things you can do to build immunity to fit in this column. Low-sugar diet. Lots of rest. Lots of hand washing. Onion garlic tea.

One of my favorite herbal immune supports is the reishi mushroom. Also known as Ganoderma lucidum, it enjoys special veneration in Asia where it has been used as herbal medicine for more than 4000 years. Another form of the parasitic plant grows in the Amazon. The plant has the reputation of being the "ultimate herbal substance," according to Wikipedia, and is described as the "mushroom of immortality."

Much of what we know about the plant is taken from traditional use rather than peer-reviewed studies. I do not disrespect traditional use; ancient people were much more intuitive about their bodies and healing than we are today, and much of what they passed on to us has stood both tests of time and science.

Some of the folklore and science about reishi supports the idea that it possesses anti-tumor, immunomodulatory and immunotherapeutic activities due to studies on the polysaccharides (complex sugars) and other natural constituents of the plant. It may help prevent certain forms of cancer and aid in the treatment of cancer. (The word "immunomodulatory" means that it helps the body respond appropriately to immune challenges. The word "immunotherapeutic" means, as you would suppose, that it conveys a therapeutic benefit to the immune system. )

According to one source that provides an overview of both folklore and science, reishi "is used for enhancing the immune system, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, treating and preventing viral infections and tumors, treating inflammatory disease, cardiovascular disease, asthma and bronchial diseases. It is used for reducing stress, providing a kidney tonic, treating hepatitis and liver disease and supporting chemotherapy.

Personally, I am using reishi to prevent getting any type of viral or other diseases.

— Ms. Simontacchi is a certified lifestyle educator at the offices of Dr. Alan Gruning in Fort Myers and owner of the Island Nutrition Center on Sanibel.