We're often asked what the difference is between our two immune formulas, and which one to take. The short answer: they do different jobs, and they're designed to work together.
- ImmuMend is the foundation: nine adaptogens, taken consistently over time, for deep immune support through the whole season.*
- ViraVade is the active immune responder: four traditional herbs for the times you need more support.*
This is the same two-layer approach herbalists have always used for the cold season. We describe it in more detail in our guide to winter immune herbs.
ImmuMend: Deep Immune Fortification
ImmuMend is designed to help maintain a healthy immune system, support the lungs and support the body's healthy response to stress.* That last part matters. Stress and immune health are closely linked, which is why every herb in the formula is an adaptogen or a classic tonic. The nine herbs:
- Astragalus root, the classic immune tonic of traditional Chinese practice.
- Dang shen root (Codonopsis pilosula), a gentle energy tonic sometimes called "poor man's ginseng."
- Cordyceps mushroom (Cordyceps militaris), traditionally used to support the lungs and stamina.
- Reishi mushroom, the "mushroom of immortality," rich in immune-supporting polysaccharides.
- Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum), an adaptogenic vine from southern China.
- Holy basil, the sacred tulsi of India, used to help the body manage stress.
- White Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), the most famous tonic root in the world.
- Schisandra berry, the "five-flavor fruit," used as an adaptogen and to support the lungs.
- Licorice root, which harmonizes the formula and supports the respiratory tract.
How to take it: shake well, then add 1–2 full squeezes of the dropper bulb to 2 oz of water, 3–4 times per day, between meals. ImmuMend is designed to be taken consistently over time for best results, so start it at the beginning of the season and keep going.*
ViraVade: Active Immune Responder
ViraVade is a fast-acting formula designed to support the body's natural immune response, both for everyday resilience and when you need an active immune responder.* Its four herbs:
- Lomatium root (Lomatium dissectum), a responsibly wildcrafted root traditionally used by Native American peoples to support the respiratory system and the body's natural defenses.
- Cistus (Cistus incanus), a wildcrafted Mediterranean herb rich in polyphenols, traditionally used to support immune health and the upper respiratory tract.
- Olive leaf, rich in oleuropein and other antioxidant compounds that support healthy immune function.
- Licorice root, which supports the lungs and respiratory tract and helps the formula assimilate.
How to take it: shake well, then add 1–2 full squeezes of the dropper bulb to 2 oz of water, 3–4 times per day, between meals.
Which one do I need?
- "I want to stay resilient all season." Start with ImmuMend, daily, from fall through winter.
- "I feel run down," "I'm traveling," or "everyone around me is sick." Reach for ViraVade.
- "I want to be covered either way." Take ImmuMend as your daily base, and keep ViraVade on hand for the days you need more.
The two formulas are designed to complement each other, and that's how the Large Immune Bundle is built: a 4 oz ImmuMend as the foundation, with ViraVade, Pine Needle 2X, Elderberry, Propolis, SilverSinus and Zinc Ultra. If you only want the responder side, the Mini Immune Bundle pairs ViraVade with Pine Needle 2X, Elderberry and Zinc Ultra.
Safety
Both formulas contain licorice, which isn't suitable in large amounts or for long periods for people with high blood pressure, heart or kidney conditions, or low potassium. Keep that in mind if you take both at once. ImmuMend contains Asian ginseng, which may not suit people who are sensitive to stimulants or who take blood thinners or diabetes medication. A small number of people develop a skin rash from lomatium; if that happens, stop taking ViraVade. Immune herbs may not suit people with autoimmune conditions or those taking immunosuppressant drugs. If you're pregnant, nursing, or take prescription medication, talk to your healthcare provider first. If symptoms are severe, include a high fever, or last more than a few days, see a healthcare provider.
Shop this guide: ImmuMend · ViraVade · Large Immune Bundle · Mini Immune Bundle
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.