Here are some links about the items you posted about, amit.

Astragalus:
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/a...lus-000223.htm
(possible interaction with immune suppressing drugs/steroids)

Shiitake:
https://healthlibrary.epnet.com/GetC...hunkiid=220562
(weak evidence)

Kombucha:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kombucha
questionable

Echinacea:
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/echinacea-000239.htm
There are far more warnings and studies for this herb, to be used very carefully, and perhaps not at all for those with autoimmune disorders.

I have found it best to confirm things that one may see in the general media. Often the journalists are not that prepared or accurate about medical things, or especially about herbal or supplement information. (this is because the information may change rapidly).

The University of Maryland site, and the Natural Pharmacy site are just about the best I have found. Linus Pauling Institute is excellent for vitamins/minerals, but they don't do herbs as a rule.

Also beware of sites that sell their own proprietary products (not like iherb which sells everything). Information from specialty sites can be misleading, in order to hype up their product.

Actually, I have several autoimmune diseases (lupus, sjogrens and APS), and I find that I can take echinacea short term with no problems at all - up to 5 - 7 days. I wouldn't take it for any longer though, but seeing there is the odd situation that I find it extremely useful for (recurrent boils springs to mind - it works better than antibiotics for this) then I do take it without a problem. I watch for signs that it is flaring my autoimmune problems, but to date it never has.

I know it was one of my doctors who told me this was ok - I just can't remember which!

hth

raglet

Long ago I figured out that Echinacea with Goldenseal didn't help me at all and switched to straight Goldenseal for 2 week runs when having difficulty with sinus infection. Everyone said "use the two together - works better", but for me the Echinacea is a problem. Thanks for the info. Now I know why!

Becky

goldenseal is also on the list of herbs to be avoided with autoimmune problems - but if it works for you and you are not having any flares caused by it, then it is likely fine to take it short terms. I certainly find echinachea fine for short term use.

cheers

raglet