Bone marrow creates white blood cells that help protect your body against infection. So, low white blood cell counts may put you at risk of getting an infection. You can use echinacea herbal therapy to raise your white blood cell count. However, do not use echinacea or other herbs on your own; work with a trained herbal practitioner.
Echinacea History
Echinacea was originally introduced to early American settlers by American Indian tribes, who used it primarily for treating and preventing colds, flu and infections. Herbalist Andrew Chevallier reported that Indians also used echinacea to treat fatal viral diseases such as rabies. Echinacea has become one of the most popular herbs in the United States today, although there is little scientific evidence for its effects.
Echinacea and White Blood Cells
Echinacea is an ideal remedy for patients whose immune system has been compromised by disease or by administration of chemicals. It may help restore white blood cell production and hence your body’s ability to fight off infection and disease. The polysaccharides in echinacea intensify phagocytosis, a process that eradicates foreign cells, viruses and bacteria, according to Healing Daily.
Other Herbs
Elderberry is often found in herbal remedies for colds and the flu. It works by activating white blood cells and making them more effective at fighting infection and strengthening the immune system. Garlic is another potent immune booster. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, its immune-boosting properties might help fight cancer. Chinese investigators have shown that the immuno-stimulatory activity of the Indian spice turmeric may be beneficial as adjuvants to mainstream care in cancer patients.
Considerations
Like with most other herbs, not many tests have been done on echinacea. Preliminary studies indicate that echinacea does have a positive influence on the immune system. However, scientists do not know exactly how it works. In addition, echinacea may have adverse or harmful side effects. Check with your doctor to determine if echinacea is safe for you.
References
- "Herbal Remedies"; Andrew Chevallier; 2010
- Healing Daily: Echinacea and Your Immune System; 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Garlic; Steven D. Ehrlich
- International Journal of Biological Macromolecules: Immunostimulatory Activities of Polysaccharide Extract Isolated From Curcuma Longa; G. Yue, et al.; October 2010
