4 Essential Herbs for Immune System Support

Have you experienced the power of herbs for immune support? Herbs and herbal medicine are not a passing health fad, nor will they fall into the shadows of wellness news like so many superfoods do.

The importance of supporting your immune system for long term health and vitality is here to stay. There are so many natural, easy and affordable ways to ensure you have a strong and effective immune system.

Before we dive into how to support your immune system, it’s helpful to understand what your immune system even is. Read on to learn more!
 
 

Immune System 101

Your immune system is the foundation of illness prevention and recovery. The immune system is spread throughout the body and involves many types of cells, organs and tissues.

It works around the clock providing surveillance to your whole body to detect when a foreign invader has arrived. When the invader is detected, it provides instructions to your cells on what to do, how strongly to react and when it’s safe to ease off and relax.

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How to Support Your Immune System Effectively and Naturally

Getting the foundations of health in place is the first step. The foundations include regular exercise, eating primarily whole-foods, ensuring adequate sleep and effective stress management.
 

Your immune system is the foundation of illness prevention and recovery.

 
Having all the foundations in place all of the time is easier said than done, I get it. Sometimes disrupted sleep, increased stress or not having access to healthy foods is inevitable.

There are times in your life when you just need a little more support! That’s where herbal medicine comes in to save the day.

Here’s How Herbs for Immune Support Actually Work

Herbal medicine (aka plants) is one of the most ancient forms of supporting health and vitality. Every plant has a variety of different properties and works in a specific way. Plants can be used in particular situations just as medications are.

Some herbs are great for boosting energy and others are good for fighting off infections. Some are great for short term infections and others are better for chronic infections.

Some work best for infections in the digestive tract and others are better for infections in the respiratory system. Clearly, there are many ways to incorporate herbs for immune support and beyond.

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It’s best to work with a licensed Naturopathic Doctor or Certified Herbalist to ensure the herbs you’re taking are safe, high-quality, and the most effective option for your unique situation.

Just like there’s no one size fits all diet, herbal recommendations follow the same principle.

The best herb for you depends on a variety of factors that are specific to you, like your energy levels, supplements or medications you might be taking, and past health history.

Here Are 4 Herbs to Support Your Immune System Naturally:

1. Echinacea

Echinacea has antimicrobial, anti-viral, and immune boosting properties, making it a great herb for immune support. It’s most often used for minor infections. This plant is typically only used short term for up to 10 days.
 

2. Astragalus

Astragalus has a particular affinity for the immune system and is great to use for recurrent infections. It also has adaptogenic properties, which means it helps combat the effects of physiological and psychological stress. Bonus!
 

3. North American Ginseng

North American ginseng is considered one of the best immune-stimulating herbs. It’s commonly used for chronic infections and it also has antiviral and adaptogenic properties.
 

4. Elderflower

Elderflower has become the posterchild herb for immune system support, and is commonly used for fevers and upper respiratory tract infections. It’s also frequently used in kids formulas for colds, coughs and flus.

Depending on the plant, some can be consumed as teas, tables or tinctures (which are liquid extracts made from herbs that are taken orally). Be sure to speak to a qualified health-care provider to find the appropriate dosage.
 
 

Herbs for Immune System Support, Health and Vitality

The immune system is vital for survival and is wildly complex. It’s important to remember there are things we can do to actively support it every single day. The way we eat, move and live play a powerful role.

Although the foundations of health are key for your immune system and overall health, herbal remedies can play an incredibly supportive role.

All included information is not intended to treat or diagnose. The views expressed are those of the author and should be attributed solely to the author. For medical questions, please consult your healthcare provider.