Your immune system, an intricate assemblage of tissues, organs and cells, is in charge of protecting your body against viruses, bacteria and other harmful microbes. Ongoing stress, an unhealthy diet or exposure to toxins can weaken the immune system, leaving you open to infections and disease. Popular tonic herbs like ginseng, elderberry and rhodiola can help reverse depletion and restore your defenses. Consult your doctor before using any herb.
Tonic Herbs
Tonic herbs can be utilized regularly to increase longevity, rejuvenate your immune system and shield you from ill health. Ayurveda, the age-old healing system of India, employs plants like shatavari, amla, ashwagandha, tulasi and ginger to restore vigor and balance to the body. Traditional Chinese medicine draws on herbs such as Asian ginseng, schisandra, astragalus and reishi as immune-enhancing energizers. Before taking any herb, consult a qualified health care professional.
Elderberry
Elderberry is a time-tested remedy for viral illnesses like colds and flu. Also called elder, research suggests that the plant's flowers and berries can relieve sinus inflammation, act as an anti-inflammatory and protect the body from cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This herb also contains flavonoids, which are natural compounds that may help inhibit cellular damage. Among the several varieties of elder, herbal remedies are usually concocted with European elder, also known as black elder. Elderberry supplements can be bought in capsules, syrups, extracts and lozenges. Herbs should only be used under a doctor's supervision.
Chinese Asparagus
Traditional Chinese medical practitioners use Chinese asparagus root, also known as tian dong, to fight hepatitis, breast cancer, cough and constipation and as a tonifier. This versatile plant, whose botanical name is Asparagus cochinchinensis, has shown promise as an anti-inflammatory, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. The Plants for a Future website explains that this perennial plant is also used as an antibacterial, as a diuretic and as an antiseptic. Research indicates that it has anti-tumor properties as well. Despite its many benefits, Chinese asparagus is not an adequate replacement for advice and treatment from a qualified health care professional.
Rhodiola
A tonic herb used for over three millennia in Europe and Asia, research shows this powerful plant fights stress and depression. It regulates hormones and protects neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin and increases brain serotonin by as much as 30 percent, reports Plants for a Future. Rhodiola root is an adaptogen, which means it naturally enhances the immune system, increases endurance and alleviates fatigue. Traditionally, rhodiola is recommended to increase mental performance, physical stamina and combat stress-induced fatigue. It has also been used for cardiovascular conditions and as an anti-cancer agent, according to the MSKCC. The use of rhodiola should be supervised by your doctor.
