One of the best ways of boosting our immune system is by supplementing our daily diet with natural herbs. It is the best alternative as they do not have chemicals. Herbs are generally toxin-free and are more easily tolerated by the body. So, everybody needs to know how to boost their immune system naturally.
Some antiviral herbs boost our immune system against infections and viruses. They also act as a natural remedy to flu, therefore offering health benefits such as anti-inflammatory support, as well as improved digestion and cardiovascular response. Amid this Coronavirus pandemic, the use of natural herbs to boost our immunity is vital. Until a vaccine is found for the virus, applying any preventive measures are essential at this time.
But, how do herbs boost immune health?
Research shows that herbs work in different ways to boost and protect our immune system. Various herbs have been proven to boost immunity and other health benefits. For instance, Echinacea is a popular herb known for promoting immune health. It gained its popularity by being the best alternative approach for treating the common cold. Since then, many people rely on it whenever the need arises.
Apart from Echinacea, various herbs have positive effects on our immune system. This includes:
Astragalus Root
It is one of the best herbs when it comes to prevention. This herb is commonly used during flu season or even before interacting with large crowds. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) refers to it as an adaptogen. Adaptogens can protect the body against emotional, physical, and mental stress. Stress is known to be detrimental to the immune system, so Astragalus root plays a significant role.
Research in the US has also recommended it as an adjunct treatment for people undergoing radiation or chemotherapy.
Ganoderma
Also known as Reishi mushroom, it is a popular herb used in Chinese medicine. It has a good sense of immune-boosting effects and other health benefits, like fighting viral infections. For instance, the Reishi mushroom’s regular consumption will help improve blood circulation and enhance the body’s immune system. More so, red Reishi is known to treat high blood pressure, asthma, hepatitis, insomnia, bronchitis, and anxiety. According to WebMD.com, red Reishi can work with other herbs to treat prostate cancer.
Calendula
It is a useful herb with antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial benefits. UMMC found out that Calendula has high flavonoids. That is a plant-based antioxidant that protects our body cells against damage from unstable molecules, also known as free radicals. Today, Calendula is used topically in terms of ointments and tinctures. It has shown positive effects on healing wounds as it supports the increase of air and blood flow to the affected area.
Ginseng
Ginseng is a popularly recognized herb containing ginsenosides components known for having anti-cancer properties and anti-inflammatory properties. More so, new studies show that the herb can help ward off many health conditions related to diabetes.
Turmeric
Turmeric has a component known as curcumin. This component is known to have anti-inflammatory effects, and research done decades ago shows that it can also have immune health benefits. At low doses, curcumin enhances antibody response. That means it has positive effects on asthma, allergy, heart disease, arthritis, atherosclerosis, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. This is a reliable herb because of its ability to modulate the immune system. Also, according to that finding, we can consider curcumin for immune disorder therapy.
More research is always being conducted to discover more beneficial herbs. However, maintaining good overall health with healthy food, exercise, and getting adequate sleep should not be overlooked.