Body of Wonder Episode #12 Adaptogens for Stress Resiliency and Immunity with Dr. Lise Alschuler
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Nov 19, 2020 Dr. Lise Alschuler, a naturopathic oncologist and integrative medicine professor, explores adaptogens and their role in stress resiliency and immunity. She explains origins, mechanisms, and which herbs and mushrooms people use. The conversation covers astragalus, ashwagandha, rhodiola, reishi and more, plus safety, sourcing, and practical daily use.
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Adaptogens Restore Dynamic Balance
- Adaptogens are natural products that restore dynamic balance across many body systems rather than pushing one direction like stimulants.
- Lise Alschuler explains they normalize physiology across the stress continuum and are distinct from vitamins, minerals, or drugs.
Use Astragalus For Immune Support
- Use astragalus as a preventive and recovery-support herb for respiratory infections and immune resilience.
- Lise Alschuler: astragalus upregulates initial immune defenses and has anti-inflammatory effects especially supportive of lung function.
Stop Astragalus During Active Infection
- Take astragalus long-term for prevention but stop it during an acute infection.
- Lise relays TCM guidance that continued astragalus during active infection may 'hardwire' the infection and impede clearance.
