Your immune system fights off illness--from cancer to the common cold--and it uses vitamins and minerals from the foods you eat to do so. For many people, eating a diet rich in immune-boosting supplements is enough to protect them, but if you are not able to maintain such a diet, or if you need a little extra immune-boosting power, certain herbs and supplements added to your daily diet will help your immune system go the distance.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an immune-boosting herb that has anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and anti-viral powers. It strengthens the body's natural immunity by stimulating the macrophages, interferons and the lymphokines, and helps repair the body's tissues that are susceptible to invasion by foreign organisms. It can be found in teas, tinctures and pill form.
Garlic
Fresh garlic stimulates the immune system's ability to fight infections, and has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-viral properties. It strengthens the immune system by increasing the natural "killer" cells that help fight viruses and infections. It is also helpful in treating respiratory infections. It is most effective if taken raw, no more than 15 minutes after cutting, but it is also available in pill form.
Astragalus
Astragalus is a multi-functional herb that supports immune function by boosting phagocyte activity, increasing the effectiveness of natural "killer" cells and increasing antibodies. It is effective at treating infections, as well as colds, flus, and chronic fatigue. It can be used fresh or dried, and is available in tincture and pill form.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the most well-known immune boosters. It's found naturally in fruits and vegetables, and is widely available in pill and chewable forms. Vitamin C increases white blood cells, which fight infection in the body, and interferon, an antibody that covers cell surfaces and prevents viruses from invading them. Higher levels of vitamin C in the body may also help to prevent certain types of cancer.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is found in foods like whole grains, seeds and vegetable oils. It increases the production of B-cells which are responsible for destroying bacteria and producing antibodies, and boosts the production of "killer" cells which kill cancer and germs. It has also been found to help reverse the signs of aging and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral which aids in increasing the number of infection-fighting white blood cells in the body and helps them to fight harder against infections. It also increases "killer" cells and T-cells, which also fight against infection. It can be especially effective in elderly people who tend to be deficient in zinc.
