Date: 2015-05-28
Author: BioCeuticals - Editor
Access: Public
The immune system is one of the most important systems of the body, and our most important defender against foreign invaders such as viruses and bacteria.
It is only when we begin to feel run down or can’t shake a cold that we give the immune system the attention it deserves.
Fatigue, slow healing wounds and repeated or chronic infections are some of the signs that your immune system may not be functioning at its optimum. Herbal and nutrient supplements can help you recover faster, and improve your resistance to infections.
Here are some of the most important supplements to keep in your cupboard during winter:
Andrographis
This herb stimulates the immune system and studies have found that it reduces the severity of common cold symptoms such as sore throat, upper respiratory catarrh, bronchial cough and fever.1-4
Echinacea
Many of us have heard the name echinacea but may not be sure why it’s so popular; it has antimicrobial and antiviral activity and has been traditionally used to support immune function and provide relief of upper respiratory catarrh, sore throat and feverish conditions.3,5
Olive leaf
Olive leaf has shown to possess antibacterial activity and is used in traditional western herbal medicine for respiratory ailments such as cough and sore throat.5-7
Vitamin C
A classic remedy, vitamin C is a great addition to any immune-boosting regimen. Great for the lead up to the winter months, vitamin C taken prophylactically can help to build up immunity and ward off colds.
Numerous clinical studies support the use of vitamin C in reducing the severity and duration of colds.8-11 Vitamin C, otherwise known as ascorbic acid, acts to dampen the histamine response which includes symptoms of runny nose and watery eyes.5,11,12
Vitamin C’s role in immunity can be enhanced when combined with other potent nutrients such as vitamin E, zinc, betacarotene and rutin. Vitamin E and rutin, like vitamin C, are potent antioxidants. Antioxidants are important for immune health as they are able to protect immune cells from free radicals in the body.13
Vitamin A
Betacarotene is a precursor for vitamin A, which plays an essential role in regulating the immune system and helps the body fight off infections. It also boosts the activity of white blood cells, which defend the body from foreign substances.14
Vitamin D
Known as the sunshine vitamin, the well-researched vitamin D enhances the immune response to bacteria and viruses. Being deficient in vitamin D has been linked to recurrent infections.
Zinc
Zinc is a well known immune-support nutrient required for production of white blood cells that fight infections; its deficiency is linked to decreased immune function.15-17
Mushrooms
Mushroom extracts including reishi and shiitake have traditionally been used to stimulate and support the immune system.
Tips for a healthy immune system
Contact me for assistance with your Winter Wellness juelle@revitalizehealth.co.nz
References