Today marks the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar. But before the dim sum dining and festive parades begin, consider exploring another side of the culture’s rich history. “Traditional Chinese herbal medicine remains one of the oldest documented forms of medicine on the planet,” explains New York City-based medical herbalist Daniela Turley. “Even some modern drugs, like Tamiflu, have been derived from these herbal remedies.” Natural herbs can be surprisingly potent, meaning they’re best incorporated into your diet under the supervision of a professional—Turley sees clients for custom consultations in her Manhattan office—but nearly everyone can benefit from incorporating the right blend into their nutrition plan. Here are Turley’s five favorite ingredients for tackling what ails you, from a sluggish immune system to a poor memory, just in time for the year of the rooster.

The Herb: Astragalus RootWhat It’s Good For: The Common Cold (and More)As one of the most commonly prescribed herbs, Astragalus is often used to prevent infections. “It’s seen as one of the most powerful spleen and lung tonics,” notes Turley, who, for her part, recommends it to clients who are in need of digestive help. It’s also beneficial for fighting off the common cold: At the first sign of a sore throat or stuffy nose, add a few drops of it to hot water for a soothing tea.

The Herb: Schisandra BerryWhat It’s Good For: Mood and MemoryThis ancient berry, once famously consumed by Taoist masters and Chinese royalty to boost brain activity, “is one of the few herbs that is said to balance the mind and spirit,” says Turley, who adds that is has been “shown to improve memory.” While somewhat more subjective in the eye of the beholder, it’s also known as a beauty tonic and “has been considered to help preserve youth.”

The Herb: GinkgoWhat It’s Good For: Allergies and Urban Pollution“This herb has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties,” explains Turley, highlighting the supplement’s power to aid with asthma and allergies. With leaves that contain significant levels of free radical–fighting antioxidants and flavonoids, it may help improve eye health. Likewise, if you’re “exposed to high levels of pollution, you may want to give Gingko a try,” says Turley.

The Herb: Panax GinsengWhat It’s Good For: Fatigue and StressPerhaps one of the most well-known herbs in the world, Ginseng has a diverse range of beneficial properties. “It has been widely studied and shown to increase endurance, lower stress, and even stabilize blood sugar,” says Turley, who stresses the importance of checking with a doctor before taking it, since Ginseng can interact with many drugs, including a high intake of caffeine. Once cleared by your medical practitioner, a few droplets in a glass of water can also provide a boost of morning energy.

The Herb: Medicinal MushroomsWhat It’s Good For: Immunity“There are many mushrooms used in traditional Chinese Medicine,” says Turley. “Each one has slightly different properties but have all been shown to boost immunity and aid in cancer prevention.” The easiest and possibly most accessible kind, according to Turley, is the shiitake—found in most grocery and specialty food stores—which aids in suppressing inflammation and “is great to take during times of high stress.” Mushrooms can be taken as a supplement, or, for a delicious and mood-balancing meal, pan sear shiitakes with coconut oil and toss over a bed of kale.