Herbal teas provide most of the blood types with an enormous advantage. Concoctions of herbs have been used for aeons to treat a host of illnesses, real and imagined. Today, they are widely available commercially and have been rightly restored to a place of honor in most homes.

Type O

Herbal teas can be used by type Os to shore up their strength against natural weakness. The primary emphasis for Type Os is on soothing the digestive and immune systems. Liquorice can soothe the stomach irritations that are common to Type Os. A liquorice preparation called DGL can be found in health food stores. It is safe to use because it doesn’t  contain component in raw liquorice that can raise blood pressure. Herbs such as peppermint, parsley, rose hips, and sarsaparilla all have a soothing effect. Alfalfa, aloe, burdock, and corn silk cause non-specific immune stimulation of Type O, which can exacerbate immune diseases.

Type  A

While the Type O system needs to be soothed, the Type A system needs to be revved up. The most outstanding health risk factors for Type As are related to their sluggish immune system. Aloe, alfalfa, burdock, and echinacea are immune system boosters. Green tea has a powerful antioxidant effect on the digestive tract, providing protection against cancer. Hawthorn is a cardiovascular tonic. Slippery elm, gentian, and ginger increase stomach-acid secretion. Chamomile and valerian root are exelent relaxants for the Type A system.

Type B

There are number of herbal teas that are highly beneficial for Type Bs. Ginger warms and peppermint soothes. Ginseng has a positive effect on the nervous system. It has a stimulant effect, so be sure to drink it early in the day. Liquorice is excellent for Type Bs. It contains antiviral properties that work to reduce the Type B susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. Also, many Type Bs experience a drop in blood sugar levels after meals (hypoglycemia), and liquorice helps regulate blood-sugar levels. It is discovered that liquorice is a fairly powerful elixir for those suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. However, a caution applies: since it can raise blood pressure, never consume liquorice in supplements or liquorice root without consultating your doctor.

Type AB

Herbal teas should be employed by Type ABs to rev up the immune system and build protection against cardiovascular disease and cancer. Alfalfa, burdock, chamomile, and echinacea are immune-system boosters. Hawthorn and liquorice are recommended for cardiovascular health. Green tea has enormous cancer-inhibiting properties and a positive effect on the immune system. Dandelion, burdock root, and strawberry leaf teas aid the absorption of iron and prevent anemia in Type AB.

Reference:

• Cook Right for Your Type, Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo & Catherine Whitney, Century, Random House, London, 2001.