Certain herbs are known for their ability to enhance the immune system, which can help you ward off acute illnesses like the flu. In additional a strong immune system may protect you from long-term illnesses or speed your recovery if you do become ill. If you take herbs, remember that they can produce side effects and interfere with certain medications, so consult your health practitioner before using any unfamiliar herbs.
Garlic
Garlic makes a delicious tasting herbal tea that has potent medicinal qualities. Garlic is used for a wide variety of ailments ranging from protecting against heart disease and atherosclerosis to preventing gangrene, cancer and strengthening the immune system, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Garlic is high in antioxidants and possesses antibiotic and antiviral properties, which help to fight free radicals, compounds that attack healthy cells and weaken the body.
When making garlic tea, always use fresh garlic. Peel and crush 2 to 4 cloves, allow them to rest on the counter for about 10 minutes before adding to 4 cups of boiling water for about 10 minutes. This additional time boosts its antioxidant activity, according to the University of Michigan Integrative Medicine, making it an even more potent healing agent. Remove from the heat and allow the tea to brew for another 10 minutes. Strain the garlic and pour into a cup to drink. You can add a small amount of honey to sweeten. Store the leftover tea in your refrigerator to prevent the growth of botulism spores. If the tea is too strong, dilute it with plain water or lemon juice. Note: Garlic can thin the blood, so do not use garlic tea regularly if you take blood thinners, unless under the supervision of your health practitioner.
Ginseng
Ginseng has been used for centuries by the Chinese as an immune system enhancer. It is considered an adaptogen, a substance that helps support and strengthen the immune system by helping you deal more effectively with the stress of daily living and illness. Anecdotal evidence indicates that ginseng can be taken at the same time as other medicines, herbs or even vaccines to enhance their action in the body by utilizing ginseng's adaptogenic effects. It is also thought that ginseng may raise white blood cell counts, enabling the body to better fight disease, according to Go Ask Alice. The Chinese believe that ginseng can also improve sexual potency, increase vigor and lessen the effects of aging. However, it does have side effects, such as restlessness, anxiety, hypertension, insomnia, digestive disorders and internal bleeding. Do not use ginseng unless under the supervision of your health practitioner.
Pau D'Arco
A South American rainforest herb, pau d'arco has been used traditionally to fight disease. It reputedly possesses anti-viral, anti-microbial, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties, according to the University of Colorado at Denver. Pau d'arco contains the active ingredient lapachol as well as the antioxidant quercitin, both responsible for giving this herb its bioactivity, adds the university. Pau d'arco is most often used as a tea, and may strengthen the immune system, enabling the individual to fight disease and ward off viruses and other invasive agents. However, pau d'arco can thin the blood, so if you are taking blood thinners, consult your health practitioner before taking the tea.
Echinacea
Echinacea has been used for centuries to provide immune system support as well as to fight serious blood disorders, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It possesses anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties, making it useful for the treatment of illnesses such as diptheria, syphilils, blood poisoning, cellulitis, malaria, MRSA and other life-threatening ailments, adds UMMC. To rebuild your immune system, take echinacea during the course of your illness and up to seven days thereafter. If you take it prophylactically to prevent illness, do so only for 5 to 7 days after being exposed.
Echinacea is available in several forms; make an herbal tea with it, which is easy to consume with a small amount of honey added. You might even want to add some echinacea extract to your garlic tea to make a powerful combo to fight illness. Echinacea can produce side effects, however, including allergic reactions. It is not recommended for people with auto-immune diseases, leukemia, diabetes, MS, HIV, AIDS or liver disease. Consult your health practitioner before using echinacea for any long-term treatment.
