HERBS FOR THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

There are a wide variety of herbs that are well researched and reputed to strengthen the immune system.
The reasons given are because so many herbs possess a wide range of properties (for example, antifungal, antibacterial, antiseptic, antiviral) that are beneficial to the immune system.
Herbs which have been classed as immunostimulants or immunomodulators or are of benefit to the immune system include:

🌿Echinacea spp. is known to increase phagocytosis and promote the activity of lymphocytes – stimulating both the innate and acquired immune systems.

🌿Andrographis paniculata is used in herbal medicine to treat a range of illnesses including influenza, pneumonia and bronchitis. It is immune enhancing, antiviral and antipyretic (reducing fevers).

🌿Astragalus membranaceus is more specific for chronic or recurrent infections and in instances of immune depletion. In traditional Chinese medicine it is used for diseases caused by “insufficient Qi”, typically those manifesting in weakness, fatigue, and susceptibility to infection.

🌿Uncaria tomentosa (Cat’s claw) is immune modulatory and anti-inflammatory and is beneficial in chronic infections, inflammatory conditions and autoimmune disease.

🌿Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng) is an immune tonic, general tonic and adaptogen. It can be used in weakened immunity, chronic infections, fatigue and convalescence.

🌿Sambucus nigra (elderberry) has strong traditional indications for respiratory tract infections. Constituents in the berries neutralise the spikes on a number of enveloped viruses, including influenza types A and B, rendering them unable to enter cells and replicate.

Considering our current climate of the coronavirus pandemic and as we approach the cooler months, keeping our immune systems strong and robust is vital to ensure we keep respiratory infections at bay.

Taking immune tonics is a great way to boost our immune systems and an effective prophylaxis for respiratory and viral infections.