Houttuynia cordata is one of the herbs I reach for in my herbal immune-support plans, and Montana Farmacy’s tincture is the version I use. It is a traditional 1:5 extract, handcrafted in small batches in organic cane alcohol. It appears as a component of traditional herbal protocols like the Buhner and Cowden plans.

Why this herb. Laboratory research has studied antibacterial mechanisms of its compounds against a range of bacteria, and it also supports the body’s natural inflammation response and immune balance. In practice, I often pair it with sida acuta in my practice.”Traditional medicine in Asia has used this plant for generations for similar purposes.

The dosing I use is 30 drops two or three times a day, diluted in a little water or juice. I start low and climb to the full dose over a week or two. At two or three doses a day, a 2oz bottle lasts roughly two weeks to a month. This is a months-long herb; I give it a few months as part of a full plan before judging it.

Here are some cautions. The research on houttuynia cordata is mostly laboratory work; no human trials have tested this herb. Anyone pregnant or nursing, or taking prescription medication, should review it with their physician before starting. It works inside a full plan, with sleep, food, and the other herbs, not as a stand-alone.