7 Herbs for Immune Health

Last week I covered how simple lifestyle changes can improve your immune health. Today I’m going to share with you 7 wonderful herbs that can help promote immune health.

The immune system incredibly hard-working, complex and wide-spread. It contains numerous types of cells, organs, and tissues that work

together to protect your body against infections, to remove toxins, destroys tumor cells and maintains overall health.

Did you know the immune system’s tissues comprise parts of the digestive, endocrine, respiratory and even the skeletal systems? While no system of the body operates on its own, the immune system has a uniquely symbiotic relationship with the body’s other systems and its cells can be found everywhere.

Normal functioning of the immune system is critical to our health. Therefore, immune function should always be at the top of your list of health priorities. The immune system doesn’t just keep colds and flu away. It is also the body’s best defense against any disease. Many herbs have traditionally been used to help support the immune system. These herbs help the body better cope with mental, environmental, and physical stress, support healthy inflammatory responses and promote a naturally healthy microbial balance in the GI tract, among other uses. 

There are many powerful herbs that you can use to help increase the strength of your immune system, below are 7 that can have a tremendous effect on your health.

• Astragalus root is one of the most potent immune-boosting plants. It is a Chinese herb that’s been used for centuries to strengthen the body’s internal systems, and it helps explicitly with colds and upper respiratory infections. Its greatest strength is preventing and protecting cells against cell death and other harmful elements, such as free radicals and oxidation. Do not take astragalus while you have a fever.

• Black Elderberry (Sambucus) is used for its antioxidant activity to lower cholesterol, improve vision, boost the immune system, improve heart health, and treat tonsillitis and respiratory, bacterial, and viral infections. Also, evidence suggests that chemicals in elderflower and berries may help reduce swelling in mucous membranes, including the sinuses, and help relieve nasal congestion. Elderberry may have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-influenza, and anticancer properties. A study found that using a standardized elderberry extract could shorten the duration of flu by about three days. Another study found that a tablet with elderberry extract helped reduce flu symptoms when taken within twenty-four hours of symptoms starting. In the lab, one study suggested that elderberry could kill the H1N1 virus (“swine flu”) in test tubes.

Astralagus Root

Elderberry

• Echinacea stimulates the immune system and prevents and treats upper respiratory tract infections. Studies suggest that it stimulates cells in the body whose primary function is to fight invading particles and organisms. White blood cells and spleen cells increase in number when echinacea is taken. North American Indians and early settlers used echinacea as an antimicrobial for the relief of infections and pain and for reducing symptoms of snakebites. Others have used echinacea for the relief of scarlet fever, syphilis, malaria, blood poisoning, and diphtheria 

• Rose hips contain 50 percent more vitamin C than oranges. Because of their high vitamin C content, they are an excellent immune system booster and can help prevent infections from both bacteria and viruses. They are often used as a supplement to prevent or treat a cold.

Rose hips

Echinacea

• Shiitake Mushroom Some of the most potent immunosupportive agents come from mushrooms. Some mushrooms kill viruses, bacteria, yeast, and even ones that kill cancer. A new study from the University of Florida showed increased immunity in people who ate a cooked shiitake mushroom every day for four weeks.

• Reishi Mushroom. Nicknamed “the Great Protector,” red reishi mushroom has been used for centuries for its numerous health benefits. Proven to be a potent immune modulator, this mushroom has been shown to contain health-giving compounds that regulate antibody production, protecting you against cold and flu viruses. It can also be taken during a cold or flu to help speed up recovery and minimize a virus’ effect. It works best when taken regularly to prevent germs from taking hold in the first place. Make sure to choose a product rich in polysaccharides, sterols, and other compounds that support the immune system.

Shiitake Mushroom

Reishi Mushroom

Until next week,
Toni