A multi-layered shield for the body, the immune system is incredibly hard-working. The immune system's tissues perform diverse roles: The skin serves as a barrier to invaders, lymphatic fluid lymph continually circulates to rid cells of everyday toxins, and lymph nodes serve as filters for the body.

While technically part of the circulatory system, the immune system's tissues comprise parts of the digestive, endocrine, respiratory, and skeletal systems. While no system of the body operates autonomously, the immune system has an especially symbiotic relationship with the body's other systems.

The immune system knows no boundaries; its cells go everywhere. Keeping the immune system balanced is of the utmost importance in all stages of life. As the natural defense system, its design is to spring into action to support every area of the body.

If your body is your castle, your immune system acts as the soldiers patrolling the perimeter and every corridor within the walls. Herbal medicine has been used in traditional medicine worldwide.

Herbs contain potent antioxidants that help protect against free radicals, which can damage cells and weaken the immune system. A meta-analysis of research on herbal remedies has shown that some herbs may soothe a scratchy throat and combat the symptoms of respiratory infections.

REF You can support a strong immune system with a tincture, syrup, powder, or capsule from the following herbs. Before starting any new herbal regime, we recommend consulting your healthcare practitioner to determine which herbs are right for you and will work well in conjunction with any current treatments or medications that you may be using.

Andrographis Andrographis paniculata leaf is primarily studied to support immune system health by supporting healthy levels of immune cells in the blood and healthy body temperature.

We use Andrographis leaf in both Quick Defense® and Turmeric Supreme® Immune Support. Astragalus root Huang Qi is a foundational herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine that supports healthy resistance from occasional physical and emotional stressors and healthy immune function.

REF In studies, Astragalus has been shown to support the integrity of mucous membranes and epithelial cells in the intestinal tract, which supports immune function in the respiratory tract.

Black Elderberry Sambucus nigra provides immune support , both as a daily tonic and at the start of an immune challenge.

Highly revered, the very name reflects the respect given to the elder shrub. Native Americans used the branches of Black Elderberry to make flutes, so it is sometimes called "the tree of music. We source the Black Elderberries used in our syrups and other products from a European growing cooperative based in Austria.

Established in , this cooperative has over growers dedicated to preserving the traditional growing of herbs for supplements. One of our growers, the largest producer of organic Elderberries in Europe, has cultivated these beautiful berries for over 40 years with care.

We are honored to work with this family and to feature their Black Elderberry in our delicious syrups, Quick Defense, and Immune Shine. Echinacea Echinacea angustifolia and purpurea supports continual immune health.

Both species of Echinacea have been used historically by Native Americans and Europeans to treat various ailments, and Echinacea remains one of the most popular immune herbs today. In late summer at the Gaia Farm, we have both species of Echinacea in full bloom in all their bright, inspiring pink and purple glory.

Echinacea is unique in that various parts of different Echinacea species are active in different ways. Some preparations, such as the early spring tops, are rich in polysaccharides, helping to maintain foundational wellness.

Ginger root Zingiber officinale supports healthy digestion, and blood circulation, which supports a healthy immune response. This deliciously spicy herb grown in tropical climates is one of the most widely consumed aromatic species on the planet. Nothing beats a hot cup of ginger tea with lemon and honey when feeling chilled.

Goldenseal became popular Hydrastis canadensis root after local medicine makers learned about the plant from the Native Americans in the 19th century. They believed that the herb tonifies and supports the mucous tissues of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts while supporting the digestive process.

During heavy harvesting around the s, the population of Goldenseal significantly decreased, leaving this plant endangered and almost to the point of extinction. We have long supported United Plant Savers UPS , whose mission is to protect native medicinal plants of the United States and Canada and their native habitat while ensuring an abundant renewable supply of medicinal plants for generations to come.

We ethically source the Goldenseal root used in our products to protect this essential species. Our formulations, such as Echinacea Goldenseal Propolis Throat Spray and Echinacea Goldenseal Supreme , often pair the root with Echinacea.

Another herb commonly used by Native Americans, Grindelia has traditionally been used to support the respiratory system and provide support to an irritated respiratory tract.

Traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine highly value Maitake Grifola frondosa mushroom for supporting the immune system. As a fungus, Maitake perennially grows on hardwoods in the same place if undisturbed.

Like its cousin Reishi , Maitake fruiting bodies contain beta-glucans, commonly used to help sustain overall wellness. Throughout history, people have revered the Olive tree Olea europea , with the ancient Egyptians and Greeks recognizing it as a symbol of wisdom, peace, and longevity.

As an evergreen, the leaves of the Olive tree must produce antioxidants to withstand the radiation from the sun. Historically, people used Olive Leaf to support cardiovascular, glycemic, and immune health by supporting healthy body temperature and healthy levels of immune cells.

We use fresh-picked whole Olive Leaf , gently concentrated to support a healthy immune response. In Greek, Oregano Origanum vulgare means "joy of the mountain," as the herb prefers higher elevations in the Mediterranean region. In addition to centuries of use in kitchens across Europe, Oregano leaf has enjoyed a long history of supporting a healthy immune response.

Oregano essential oil also has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. REF The antifungal and antibacterial properties can also be beneficial in skincare. Oregano leaf can be used daily in culinary amounts to support health and in concentrated Oil of Oregano form to offer increased support when you need it most.

Today, cultivation is much easier. TCM considers Reishi a tonic and adaptogen, capable of supporting a healthy stress response and balancing various organ systems in the body. In modern times, people still use this mushroom for various purposes.

Reishi contains polysaccharides called beta-glucans , primarily found in its fruiting bodies, which contribute to its immune-supporting properties. While the above herbs are commonly used to help support the immune system, there are some other lesser-known herbs that can also offer immune support.

Here are a few honorable mentions that we like to keep in our herbal cabinet. For thousands of years, people in India have relied on Ashwagandha Withania somnifera as a powerful adaptogenic herb in Ayurvedic medicine.

Known as "Indian ginseng," Ashwagandha supports overall wellness and balances the body. Ashwagandha helps soothe stress, supports sleep quality, and maintains a healthy thyroid.

In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, people also used Ashwagandha to support healthy fertility. REF A meta-analysis of 14 studies found that echinacea lowered the odds of developing the common cold by 58 percent and cut the length of illness by one to four days.

Meanwhile, in another study , more than people with a new onset common cold were given either echinacea supplements, a placebo, or no pills for five days. The echinacea group did see an average half-day reduction in the duration of their cold or a 10 percent reduction in severity, however.

While not significant, the authors note that these improvements may make echinacea supplementation worthwhile for some people.

How to Enjoy It Echinacea is typically available as a supplement as an extract, tincture, tablet, or capsule. According to the NCCIH, most adults can safely take echinacea by mouth in the short term. However, echinacea can interact with certain medications, so consult your doctor before taking echinacea supplements, Largeman-Roth says.

Like many herbs and spices, ginger Zingiber officinale is a staple in traditional medicine. For centuries, people have turned to this warm spice for the treatment of headaches, colds, nausea, and vomiting, according to a paper in Complementary Therapies in Medicine.

Modern research shows that there may be something to this. In a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology , fresh ginger prevented plaque formation from human respiratory syncytial virus , a common respiratory virus that causes mild, coldlike symptoms.

According to a review in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine , the compounds in ginger — primarily gingerol and shogaol — have also exhibited antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic pain-relieving properties.

How to Enjoy It Brew a mug of fragrant ginger tea. You can use commercial ginger tea bags or prepare fresh ginger root tea.

To make your own tea, buy a piece of fresh ginger, trim off the tough knots and peel it. Then cut the root into thin, crosswise slices. Place a few slices in a cup, pour in boiling water, and cover and steep for 10 minutes, suggests Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Another warming spice, cinnamon is renowned for its antioxidant properties, Largeman-Roth says. In fact, cinnamon has higher antioxidant properties than mint, ginger, and licorice, according to a study.

Cinnamon Cinnamomum also offers anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory benefits, Largeman-Roth says. E-cinnamaldehyde is also an antimicrobial compound. A study published in Foods suggests that E-cinnamaldehyde may inhibit the growth of listeria bacteria. A separate study published in Foods found that cinnamon essential oil had similar effects on salmonella bacteria.

How to Enjoy It Give your toast a dusting of cinnamon or sprinkle it into your coffee or tea for added flavor. Cinnamon also pairs well with fruits like apples and pears.

Peppermint is an herb a natural cross between water mint and spearmint that contains a range of flavonoids. These are plant compounds that have beneficial effects on immune health. They help the body react to, process, protect, and repair on a daily basis, she adds.

Peppermint also contains menthol, a compound with anesthetic numbing and analgesic effects, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information.

As such, menthol is commonly added to over-the-counter cold and flu treatments. Research on menthol has been mixed, however. Some research found that inhaling menthol had no effect on nasal airflow in kids. That said, it did make nasal breathing seem easier, per research.

More studies are needed for conclusive evidence. How to Enjoy It The next time your nose gets stuffed up, breathe in steam from hot water mixed with a few drops of peppermint oil, suggests UCHealth.

Or brew a mug of hot peppermint tea. This native Chinese herb has traditionally been used as an adaptogen a substance that protects the body from stress and disease , Largeman-Roth says.

Astragalus Astragalus membranaceus is also used as part of an herbal combination to prevent or treat colds, according to Mount Sinai. While research is limited, some studies suggest that astragalus may help fight viral infections.

For example, a meta-analysis of Chinese herbal medicines including astragalus found that it may be effective against the hepatitis B virus. Not all the studies included astragalus, however, and the authors note that the studies were of poor quality and more research is warranted.

Avoid propolis if you are allergic to bee products. Propolis skin balms, ointments and creams can be applied topically to the skin to treat skin conditions like acne, eczema and psoriasis, as well as minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.

Goldenseal is considered a natural antibiotic because of its numerous medicinal benefits and immune-boosting capabilities. Berberine also has antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

The best way to take goldenseal is in capsule or liquid form. If you have a medical condition or are taking medication, consult with a herbalist or naturopath before taking goldenseal. Do not take goldenseal if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Goldenseal can be applied topically to the skin as a salve, balm or cream for rashes, itching, wounds, acne, eczema and ulcers. Be aware that goldenseal is a bright yellow colour similar to turmeric so it can stain. Andrographis is a herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat colds, flu and digestive issues.

Its immune-boosting properties are attributed to the active compounds called andrographolides which are present in the plant. Studies have shown that andrographis can stimulate the production of white blood cells to help fight off infection and increase the production of certain cytokines — these are molecules that help regulate the immune system by controlling the growth and activity of immune cells.

Using andrographis may help reduce the symptoms, severity and duration of colds and flu. You can take andrographis as a capsule, tablet or tincture. It is a very bitter herb and for some people, the liquid preparation is hard to take so capsules or tablets are preferred.

Andrographis is best taken on an empty stomach for maximum absorption. You can source of these herbs from a reputable herbal medicine supplier or health store. Dosages differ brand to brand, so follow the dosage indicated by the supplier. You will gain a greater understanding of how to use herbs support immunity and enhance your general health and vitality.

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Home About 25 Years of CNM Meet the Principal What is Naturopathy? Herbal remedies to ward off infection and boost health Constantly unwell and need to give your immune system a boost?

Consider using herbal remedies! Herbs are rich in important nutrients and powerful compounds to fuel immune cells and ward off infections Here are 5 herbs to supercharge your immune system and prevent the dreaded lurgy. Herbs for Immune Health.

Echinacea All-round Immune Booster Echinacea is a herb native to North America that has been used for centuries by Native Americans to treat a range of ailments. How to use Echinacea Liquid tincture, capsules or drops If you feel run down or a cold coming on, taking echinacea can be highly beneficial to give your immune system a boost.

Tea Echinacea tea is a popular way to take the herb. How to use Elder Tea One of the best ways to take elder is to make a tea from the dried berries. Syrup You can also make a syrup from elderberries by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil, then adding 1 cup of dried elderberries.

Propolis lozenges are great for mouth sores, sore throats and tickly coughs. How to take Goldenseal Liquid or capsule The best way to take goldenseal is in capsule or liquid form. Topically Goldenseal can be applied topically to the skin as a salve, balm or cream for rashes, itching, wounds, acne, eczema and ulcers.

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Capsules Capsules Sub Menu. Kids Kids Sub Menu. Alcohol-Free Alcohol-Free Sub Menu. Best Sellers Best Sellers Sub Menu. A review published in Cochrane Library discussed one study that gave participants either garlic supplements with mg of allicin daily over the course of 12 weeks or a placebo.

The researchers found that those who received garlic were less likely to get a cold, and if they did get sick, they were sick for less days than those in the placebo group. However, more research is needed. According to one study, this herb strengthens the HPA axis — the hypothalamic, pituitary, adrenal axis — which is responsible for regulating the immune system's response to stress.

Chronic or severe stress can weaken the immune system , so it's important that you have a strong HPA axis to help manage the effect stress has on your immune system. By strengthening the HPA axis, you are strengthening the immune system, Frost says.

Ginseng can also keep the immune system balanced by regulating various types of immune cells — including T cells, B cells, natural killer cells, and macrophages — which identify threats to the body and fight them off.

There's even evidence that ginseng can fight off Influenza A in mice, although human research is needed. Frost says ginseng is very strong, and if you're considering incorporating it into your regimen, you should consult a herbalist. You can consume ginseng by making a tea with fresh ginseng root, or you can take ginseng capsules.

Reishi, also known as Lingzhi, is a type of mushroom. Reishi mushrooms contain beta-glucans, which are believed to stimulate different types of cells in the immune system, including monocytes, natural killer cells, and dendritic cells.

By stimulating these cells, they are better able to detect and fight off infections. There's even some evidence that the beta-glucans in reishi can have anti-tumor effects, stopping the growth of cancer cells, according to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

However, more research needs to be done to further understand the benefits of resihi mushrooms. Before you start taking any of these herbs, you should consult with your doctor to make sure that they will not negatively interact with any medications you're taking. You should also make sure that you get an accurate diagnosis if you are sick — it's worth visiting a doctor to see which treatments they recommend before you try herbal remedies.

If you want to try these herbs, speaking with a qualified herbalist or traditional Chinese medicine practitioner can help you figure out which herbs might work for you, as well as the best way to take them.

They can also help you determine where to buy the herbs to make sure you are using quality products. Close icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. It indicates a way to close an interaction, or dismiss a notification. Reviews The word Reviews. Tech Angle down icon An icon in the shape of an angle pointing down.

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