Herbs to Support the Immune System

There are quite a few immune support herbs, including adaptogens, which are substances that help the body better cope with mental and physical stress. The two types of Immune-supportive herbs are Immune modulators and Immune stimulants. Immune modulators bring about increased resistance through a nonspecific self-regulating process. These herbs work to increase innate immunity and provide vital support to the immune system. On the 

other hand, immune stimulants boost the activity of the immune system but are not known to normalize excessive immune response.​ Consequently, immune stimulants are not recommended for people that have autoimmune disorders. Instead, people with autoimmune disorders may use immune modulating herbs to support them thru this cold/flu season. Some of the best-researched immune herbs that are your best bet to help prevent or shorten the duration of a cold or flu are Astragalus, Black elderberry, Echinacea, Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng), Panax ginseng, Green tea, Rosehips, Shiitake and Reishi mushrooms.

​Immune support herbs are best when taken regularly to prevent viruses and bacteria from taking hold in the first place (e.g., at least a couple of weeks before the cold/flu season starts). It is helpful to take a one-week break from these herbal supplements after taking them for about one month, then begin taking them again. This is particularly helpful for those with weak immunity, young children and the elderly. If you have a strong immune system and

​follow a healthy lifestyle, you might not need to take an herbal supplement to prevent colds and cases of flu. It will be good enough to take the supplement in times when there is a change in your lifestyle that might weaken your immune system, such as stress, anxiety, or a bad diet. At the first sign of a cold/flu take an immune formula, as it will reduce its duration.