Autoimmune Disorders

• Reduce chronic inflammation
• Support immune regulation rather than suppression
• Promote gut health (key site of immune activity)
• Support liver, adrenal, and thyroid function
• Provide antioxidants and nutrients for tissue repair

Type: Food-based tonic

Key Ingredients: Chicken or beef bones, turmeric, garlic, onion, celery, apple cider vinegar

Preparation: Simmer 6–12 hrs; strain and sip.

Storage: Refrigerate 5 days; freeze up to 3 months.

Use/Dosage: 1 cup daily.

Safety: Check for histamine intolerance; freeze/reheat promptly.

🧬 Nerd note: The amino acids glycine and proline support intestinal lining repair — critical for immune modulation.

Type: Herbal infusion

Key Herbs: Turmeric root, ginger, licorice, holy basil

Preparation: Steep 1 Tbsp in 2 cups hot water, 15 min.

Use/Dosage: 1–2 cups daily.

Safety: Avoid licorice with hypertension.

🌿 Why it works: These herbs inhibit inflammatory cytokines without shutting down your immune system completely.

Type: Food-based

Key Ingredients: Wild salmon, spinach, walnuts, berries, olive oil

Use/Dosage: 3–4× weekly.

Safety: Mercury exposure? Choose wild-caught.

🧠 Fun fact: Omega-3 fatty acids produce resolvins — molecules that literally “tell” your immune system to calm down.

Type: Herbal tincture

Key Herbs: Ashwagandha, eleuthero, schisandra

Preparation: Mix equal parts tincture or purchase pre-made.

Use/Dosage: 1–2 droppers 1–2× daily.

Safety: Avoid ashwagandha with hyperthyroidism or pregnancy.

🧬 Science bite: Adaptogens help normalize cortisol — which, when high, can worsen immune hyperactivity.

• Gentle movement: yoga, tai chi, walking
• Stress reduction: meditation, journaling, breathwork
• Sleep optimization: 7–9 hours, consistent schedule
• Avoid inflammatory triggers: processed foods, alcohol, excess sugar

🧘‍♂️ Why it works: Chronic stress and poor sleep amplify autoimmune flares. Relaxation is literally medicine.

• Vitamin D, zinc, selenium, magnesium, vitamin C
• Fermented foods for gut microbiome (sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi)
• Anti-inflammatory spices (turmeric, ginger, cinnamon)

🌱 Nerd note: A balanced microbiome helps train the immune system to “recognize self” vs. “invader.”

To discover the most common contributors behind these health concerns, check out the Foundations of Health page.