If you wish to boost your immune system without having to rely on prescription medication, then Chinese herbal supplements might be an option for you. Also referred to as "Chinese herbs" since they are native to the Asian country, these supplements have been used for centuries. Available in many forms including pills, powders, and liquid extract, Chinese herbs are available in most local drug stores and supermarkets.
Echinacea
One herbal supplement found in most local supermarkets and pharmacies for an immune system boost is Echinacea. According to the University of Michigan Health System, this herbal supplement has long been used by Chinese alternative medicine healers as a means to increase immune system functionality. According to the website, Echinacea directly affects the immune system by increasing the number of white blood cells in the body, which ultimately help fight infection and viruses. Although more studies are needed to determine the overall effectiveness of the herb on immune system health, the website suggests that Echinacea prompts three active constituents, or factors, to work together to increase the production and activity of white blood cells: alkylamides/polyacetylenes, caffeic acid derivatives and polysaccharides.
Chinese Herbs to Increase White Blood Cells
In order to fight disease and infection in the body, the University of Michigan Health System explains that white blood cells act as the blood's natural defense mechanism, or immunity. Mixed in with red blood cells in arteries and veins, these white blood cells help attack harmful diseases, thus preventing to onset of illness. According to M.M. Van Benschoten, O.M.D., Chinese herbs are available on the market that can help increase the number of white blood cells in the body. These herbs include but are not limited to atractylodes alba, curcuma zedoria, sophora flavescens, ligustrum, cinnamon bark and sophora subprostrata.
Chinese Herbs to fight HIV and Tumors
As research continues in the area of immune system health and Chinese medications, M.M. Van Benschoten, O.M.D. suggests that there are currently supplements available to fight HIV and the development of cancerous tumors. Supplements used by Chinese healers for the treatment of HIV include arctium, coptis, ciboteum, curcuma longa, epimedium, glycyrrhiza, lonicera, lithospermum, prunella, salvi, and viola. In addition, supplements suggested for protection against tumor development include oldenlandia, mentha, acanthopanax, rhubarb, salvia, curcuma zedoria, poria, glycyrrhiza, armeniaca, omphalia, ligustrum and indigo. It should be noted, however, that more research supporting the effectiveness of these Chinese supplements must be documented before any concrete claims can be made.
