Aside from keeping common colds and flu away, the immune system
is your body's first and best defense against potentially lethal diseases like
H1N1 and even cancer. [1] It is comprised of a network of cells and
organs working together to defend the body against infection and sickness by
producing secretions and disease-fighting cells. It uses an advanced
communications system to respond to immediate threats. [2] The
complex efficiency of your immune system and how it works non-stop indeed
signify its importance for your health.
If the immune system weakens and malfunctions, imagine the host of diseases
that can invade your system. More often than not, medications like antibiotics
are taken to fight bacteria-causing sickness. Drug intervention however is
sometimes a double-edged sword; drugs used to boost immune system functioning
can also be the culprits behind attacks on beneficial bacteria, further
compromising your immune system.
[2] There are some instances in
which use antibiotics leads to antibiotic-resistant pathogens such as MRSA.
Here are ten herbs which may be helpful in supporting your immune system.
10 Immune Boosting Herbs
Echinacea
Although some studies argue against its effectiveness, many studies continue
to find evidence of
Echinacea aiding to prevent and treat colds, flu and upper
respiratory tract infections. This member of the daisy family boosts immune
functioning by increasing production of immune compounds known as interferon.
[1] Research suggests white blood cells, spleen cells and core body
temperature all increase when Echinacea is administered. Because of its phenolic
compounds that produce these immune enhancing effects, Echinacea is used for
other applications like skin and lower urinary tract infections which explains
why Americans spend more than $300 million annually on this wonder herb.
[3]
Astragalus
There is some evidence supporting astragalus as an assistant to the immune
system by boosting production of immune cells along the bone marrow and
lymphatic tissue. In particular, astragalus has been found to increase
activities of natural killer cells that thwart cancer cells and macrophages or
white blood cells that consume damaged cells. Likewise, it has been shown to
produce immune compounds like immunoglobulin. In a 1997 experiment, Chinese
scientists found that giving astragalus to elderly mice restored immune
behaviors similar to those of a 10 week old mouse.
[1] The saponins
and flavonoids of astragalus are found to be responsible for its immune and
digestive benefits.
[2]
Panax Ginseng
Hailed by researchers as a health and vitality tonic, the roots of
ginseng are
known to prevent upper respiratory tract infections.
[1] A 2012
systematic review of 65 studies found that among the many disorders Panax
Ginseng is said to improve, this herb exhibited the most promising evidence in
aiding glucose metabolism and moderating the immune response.
[4] Its
active component, ginsenosides, has been proven to possess anti-inflammatory and
anti-cancer characteristics.
[2]
Garlic
Several clinical trials have supported the use of
garlic
supplements in preventing and treating colds mainly because of its sulfur
compound allicin which scientists believe to contain antimicrobial properties.
This is the same active ingredient that gives garlic its unique odor and flavor.
[1] More recent studies showed doctors reconfirming the
cardiovascular, anti-microbial and antineoplastic benefits of garlic.
[2]
Ginger
Like ginseng,
ginger has been shown to provide multiple health benefits,
including inhibiting behaviors of inflammation causing genes. A study also finds
that animals administered ginger extracts show significant reduction in
cholesterol and blood clotting qualities.
[2] In 2012, an
investigative study revealed that ginger, when taken with turmeric, possessed
immunostimulant properties by modulating the functions of immunosuppressed
macrophages among male albino mice. This suggests that dietary intake of ginger
and turmeric can defend against opportunistic infections.
[5] Recent
studies have also demonstrated
anti-cancer potential for ginger.
Cat’s Claw
Growing abundantly in South and Central America, cat’s claw is a wonderful
herb that is claimed to have immense effects in boosting the body’s immune
system. The roots and bark of this herb is said to contain oxindole alkaloids
which trigger the cat’s claw’s immune boosting abilities. These alkaloids are
said to be capable of enhancing the ability of the white blood cells to engulf
and destroy pathogens.
[6]
Oregano
Together with thyme and sage,
oregano is
recognized as one of the most potent herbs that are capable of boosting the
body’s immune system. In a placebo controlled study which aimed to determine the
effects of oregano intake to the immune system of the body, it was found out
that the herb has profound effects to the health. The study involved pigs and
half of them were given oregano supplementation while the other half were not.
Results showed that there has been a significant increase in the level of white
blood cells in the milk produced by pigs that were supplemented with oregano.
The increase in white blood cells suggests that oregano may play a role in
enhancing the immune system of the body.
[7]
Turmeric
Best recognized for its culinary benefits,
turmeric is a
potent herb that is known for its ability to keep sickness and illnesses at bay.
Its curcumin compound stimulates the increase in size of proein cathelicidin
anti-microbial peptide which plays a vital role in boosting the body’s immune
system.
[8]
Turmeric also works by enhancing cell health which results to improved
behavior of the membranes. This makes the cells more resistant against
infections and diseases. Furthermore, the antioxidant content of curcumin
protects the DNA cell against radical damages and improves the immune system of
the body.
[9]
Bell Pepper
Bell peppers are considered as excellent immune system boosters. In addition
to its Vitamins A and C offerings, bell peppers are known to be capable of
increasing body’s energy. Furthermore, when taken regularly, it helps breast
cancer, cataract, prostate cancer and macular degeneration.
[10]
In addition to Vitamins A and C, bell peppers are also good sources of
Vitamins E and B6 which are also beneficial in boosting the body’s immune
system. Vitamin B6 plays a vital role in the production of antibodies and
cytokines. These immune system proteins can detect harmful substances present in
the body and when they do, they immediately alert the immune system to fight
against it.
[11]
Cloves
Clove is
known to be a good reservoir of nutrients like manganese, dietary fiber,
Vitamin, calcium, magnesium, and omega 3 fatty acids which are considered as
essential in boosting the body’s immune system. Cloves also contain germicidal
and antiseptic properties that help the body fights against infections.
Furthermore, cloves and the oils derive from it works by fighting off virus and
purifying the blood.
[12]
Note - this website is not medical advice and these statements have not
been evaluated by the FDA. See "small print" at foot of page for full
disclaimer.
Immune Boosting Herbs - References:
[1]
http://www.motherearthliving.com/health-and-wellness/how-to-boost-your-immune-system-with-herbs.aspx
[2]
http://www.naturalnews.com/035530_immune_system_herbs_spices.html
[3]
http://www.active.com/nutrition/Articles/Echinacea__The_herbal_immune_booster
[4] Panax ginseng in Randomised Controlled Trials: A Systematic Review.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22969004
[5] Boosting of nonspecific host response by aromatic spices turmeric and
ginger in immunocompromised mice.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23295981
[6]
http://www.naturalnews.com/032917_cats_claw_herb.html
[7]
http://informed-health.net/the-health-benefits-of-oregano-oil/#p5
[8]
http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Wellness/Turmeric-curry-to-boost-immunity/Article1-863032.aspx
[9]
http://www.naturalnews.com/025908_health_turmeric_cancer.html
[10]
http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/healthy-eating/8-immune-system-boosting-foods.html#b
[11]
http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/red-peppers-immune-system-5408.html
[12]
http://www.spanimax.com/index.php/cloves
source --
http://herbs-info.com/immune-boosting-herbs.html
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