As the season changes and the weather cools, you may consider ways to naturally boost the immune system.
Or maybe you’re already on a regime and you’re interested in new ways to continue strengthening your body.
As a trained herbalist and health-focused person I would like to share the products I have used to boost the immune system, in the hope that some of these could be helpful to you.
Well known supplements you may already have experience with, but are always worth sharing about:
- Astragalus– immune support, prevents cold and respiratory infections, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory
- Medicinal mushrooms (turkey tail, reishi)– antioxidants, can even help fight certain cancers
- Echinacea– improve immunity, anti-inflammatory, improves blood sugar, anxiety, and skin health
- Goldenseal– supports respiratory tract, antibacterial, heals wounds, and supports digestive system
- Vitamin D and Zinc– maintains the integrity and function of the immune system, also supports mood and cortisol
- Probiotics (Ion Biome)– defends against toxins, boosts immune, digestion, metabolism, mental clarity and mood
- Elderberry– reduces blood pressure, antioxidants for immune system, promotes bone strength, also alleviates cold and cough
Less commonly used, some of these may be new to you:
- Green Tea (matcha)– powerful antioxidant, detoxification, prevents cancer, boosts energy, protection against infections
- Black Cumin Seed Oil– may prevent cancer, promotes liver and heart health, reduces high blood pressure, prevents diabetes, strengthens immune system
- Cinnamon Bark– pain relief, improves digestion, boosts immune system, helps with depression, helps with irregular menstrual cycle
- Osha Root– relieves chest congestion, treats colds, cough, and sore throat, also has antiviral and antibacterial properties
- Holy Basil– boosts immune system, digestive health, promotes respiratory health, cures fevers, and eye health, alkalizes the body, as well as being great for skin
- Fucoidan (brown seaweed)– prevents tumors, stabilizes blood sugar, reduces cholesterol levels, also boosts immune system
- Astaxanthin Algae– benefits cell function, supports vision and eye health, optimizes muscle repair, improves skin appearance, supports a health inflammatory response
- Quercetin– relief from insomnia, support digestion, relief from pain, headaches, colds and sinusitis, aslo protects wounds against infections
- Fire Cider/Apple Cider Vinegar– anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, antibacterial, antiviral, and digestive tonic
Every person is unique and some of the things that worked for me to naturally boost the immune system may not work for others. Always consult your naturopath or doctor concerning any questions or possible contraindications.
I have loved working with medicinal mushrooms and will continue my routine of adding reishi to my morning cup of cacao. I am also a huge fan of probiotics. They will always be my go-to to keep my entire family healthy.
What are some of the natural immune boosters you’ve tried that have worked well for you?
If you are interested in whole body wellness you might also like our post on the health benefits of walking.