The ability of the organism to resist, neutralize and dispel External influences (Xie Qi) depends upon the functional and defensive forces of the Qi and the Wei. The resoluteness of Qi and Wei in turn relies upon the adequacy of Nutritive Qi (Ying), Blood (Xue), Essence (Jing) and the capacities of the five Organ Networks. The concept of immunity in Chinese herbalism is subsumed within the notion of constitutional integrity: the resilient nature of the Righteous Qi (Zheng Qi). The termZheng refers to the harmonic interaction of the body’s processes, substances and structural components to support strength, stamina and adaptability. To support a healthy immune response is, ultimately, to sustain the organism as a whole. The fundamental body substances (Wei, Qi, Ying, Xue, Jing) can be construed as levels of functional activity, each interacting with one another in a descending and ascending hierarchy of support. Wei, the Defense Qi, governs the exterior layer, providing a buffer between the external world and the internal milieu. Jing provides the foundational matrix within which the life of the body exists, matures and evolves. Essence is inextricably linked with immunity, our adaptive reserves and our capacity to cope successfully with the stress of growing and living. Herbs that preserve Essence also safeguard immunity, and herbs that enhance immunity secure the Essence. The celebrated tonic herbs in this formula − Astragalus root, Reishi fruiting body, Maitake mycelium and fruiting body, Polyporus sclerotium and Tremella fruiting body – not only support Defensive Qi (Wei), they consolidate and replenish Essence (Jing), supporting overall wellbeing. These herbal mushrooms are traditionally used to maintain general strength and wellbeing and to support the nervous, respiratory, circulatory and digestive systems. Herbal studies have shown that both Astragalus root and these particular mushrooms contain high percentages of immune-regulating compounds called polysaccharides. These long chain sugar molecules exert a beneficial influence upon both the cellular (macrophages and T-cells) and humoral (complements and antibodies) arms of the immune system. They support the healthy function of the liver, heart, blood, lipids, metabolism and the central nervous system. They are adaptogenic: they benefit overall physical and mental stamina and performance. Resilience tonifies Qi and Wei, nurtures Blood, secures and replenishes Essence. It benefits the Spleen, Lungs, Heart, Kidney and Liver. In modern terms, it benefits the body’s capacity to adapt to stress. RATIONALE Astragalus root reinforces the Wei (defensive or protective Qi) and consolidates the surface, preventing the escape of Righteous Qi (Zheng Qi) while warding off penetration by External Influences (Xie Qi). Astragalus root also strengthens the Spleen and Kidney by tonifying and lifting Qi, helping to maintain the normal position of the internal organs. Modern research shows that it contains a potent immune-modulating polysaccharide, astragalin, which supports healthy circulation, blood pressure and fluid balance through its positive effects on perspiration and urination. Each of the mushrooms in the formula also contain active immune-modulating polysaccharides. Reishi fruiting body protects the cardiovascular system by supporting healthy blood pressure and blood lipids, and supports the Liver. Tremella fruiting body nourishes the Yin of the Kidneys and Stomach and moistens the Lung, soothing occasional irritations of the throat and chest. Polyporus sclerotium benefits the ability of the Kidney to regulate healthy fluid metabolism. Reishi fruiting body and Maitake mycelium and fruiting body amplify the beneficial properties of the other ingredients. And finally, all four of these important fungi support healthy lipid and protein metabolism, digestion and elimination.
