Herbal Action: Antioxidant

free radical damage

Antioxidant herbs protect the body against free radical damage. Free radicals are highly reactive compounds that bind to and destroy other molecules. They can form when we're exposed to environmental toxins and waste products, but they're also a normal byproduct of metabolism — meaning some free radical activity is simply part of being alive, not solely a result of outside exposure.

Radioprotective herbs are a specific type of antioxidant that help counteract the effects of radiation. They may also be adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory, and can stimulate DNA repair.

What they do

• Protect the body against free radical damage

• Can help lessen inflammation in the body by preventing some inflammatory compounds from being created in the first place

• Inhibit oxidative damage to healthy cells and tissues

How they're used:

Commonly taken as teas, extracts, capsules, or incorporated into the diet as food and spices.

When to consider them:

Oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, signs of premature aging, exposure to environmental toxins or pollution, general cellular health and immune support, and recovery after illness. Radioprotective herbs specifically may be considered for support during or after radiation exposure.

Herbs

• Mugwort

• Ginkgo leaf (radioprotective)

• Reishi

• Goldenrod

• Hawthorn

• Tulsi

• Turmeric

• Ginger (radioprotective)

• Lemon balm (radioprotective)

• Milk thistle

• Oregano

• Rose hip

Radioprotective herbs

• Asian ginseng

• Eleuthero

• Gotu kola

• Peppermint

• Rhodiola

• Schisandra

• Tulsi