Here’s what an ND keeps in her purse

Stressful situations like work deadlines or constantly feeling overwhelmed can dramatically affect your immune system’s function. Extended periods of stress can suppress the immune system’s fighting abilities, leaving you more vulnerable to infections like colds and flus.

When combating the initial cold symptoms, it’s important to ward off unwanted viruses and bacteria by killing them and stimulating your immune system defenses. One of the first signs of a cold is a sore throat, often due to the start of an infection. To quickly combat the viruses or bacteria your throat and mouth may be harboring, you can carry a potent herbal antimicrobial (germ-killing) tincture with you.

Here are a few herbs to look for in tincture form that are excellent for supporting immune function and soothing cold symptoms when you start feeling them coming on.

Antimicrobial herbs: andrographis and myrrh

Two potent antimicrobial herbs are andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) and myrrh (Commiphora spp.).

Andrographis has been shown to reduce frequency and severity of cough while also clearing mucus.

Myrrh has been used traditionally to inhibit the growth of bacteria and ease inflammation.

Soothing and gentle marshmallow

Another very important herb to help soothe the mucosal lining of an irritated throat is marshmallow (Althea officinalis). This herb is called a demulcent: it coats and lines mucosal membranes in the body. The tincture works best if taken as soon as the undesired symptoms begin.

Digestive enzymes for gas and bloating

It’s easy to find ourselves in situations where food choices are less than optimal. This is where digestive enzymes in your purse can come in handy. Digestive enzymes help break down the food we eat, which reduces the likelihood that we will experience the negative side effects of gas and bloating.

A supplement containing a spectrum of different digestive enzymes derived from plant sources may be best. Each enzyme helps digest a particular food type. For example, the enzyme amylase helps digest starches, while lipase helps digest fats.

Keep in mind that digestive enzymes are not a permanent solution if you experience persistent gas and bloating—that merits a visit to your doctor or health care practitioner. But digestive enzymes are useful for occasional situations that you can’t avoid.

Passion flower for anxious moments

If you suffer from anxiety in social situations, experience stage fright before public speaking or generally feel anxious, it may be helpful to have some passion flower on hand to help you get through these stressful moments.

Passion flower has been used for many years as a mild sedative—it’s relaxing and calming. In recent studies, it has shown promise in reducing anxiety, potentially by affecting GABA receptors in the brain (which are thought to control fear and anxiety).

Although passion flower is considered a mild sedative, it is important to make sure this is the right herb for you based on allergies you may have or the type of job you do. Some people can have an allergic reaction or feel more sedated than normal. As with any new herb or supplement, consult your doctor or health care practitioner for proper dosing and safety instructions prior to taking passion flower.