A low white blood count occurs when you have fewer than 5,000 white blood cells, or leukocytes, per cubic millimeter of blood, according to Britannica.com. The most common causes of a low white blood count, or leukopenia, are infections by viruses or other pathogens. Certain chronic diseases may also cause leukopenia. Nutritional supplements may be helpful in boosting your white blood cell count, but always review supplement with your doctor before using them to treat health conditions.
Leukopenia Background Info
White blood cells -- monocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils and basophils -- are crucial to the immune system. Without sufficient white blood cells, you may be unable to fight infections. Possible causes of a low white blood cell count, notes MedlinePlus, include bone marrow tumors or infection, liver and spleen disease and radiation treatments. Malnutrition is another possible cause of leukopenia. Fevers, flulike illnesses that fail to resolve and frequent infections are among the most common signs and symptoms of a low white blood count.
Nutritional Supplements
Numerous nutritional supplements may be helpful in strengthening your weak immune system and improving your white blood cell count. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch reports that essential fatty acids, garlic, maitake, reishi and shiitake mushroom extracts, taurine, astragalus, echinacea, goldenseal, red clover and bayberry may be useful for these health purposes, but check with your health-care provider before trying these remedies. Further scientific research studies are necessary to determine the health effects of dietary supplements in boosting white blood cell counts.
Astralagus
Astragalus is an herbal supplement that has long been used in treating problems associated with immune deficiency, and may be one of the best bests for herbal treatment for leukopenia. Astragalus, notes expert herbalist and naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," possesses antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action and has historically been used to help prevent decreased white blood cell counts during cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. Astragalus is a plant indigenous to certain parts of Asia. The roots of the plant are used medicinally.
Considerations
A low white blood count can indicate a serious underlying health condition, and to address it appropriately, you must consult a licensed healthcare practitioner. Your doctor can counsel you on the most effective treatment methods to help treat leukopenia, including the most effective natural therapies. Always exercise caution when taking nutritional supplements and use them only under the supervision of your primary care provider. Not all nutritional supplements are appropriate for you or your condition.
References
- Britannica.com: Leukopenia
- MedlinePlus: WBC Count
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
