Using Herbs to Boost Immunity and Fight Infection

You can use food, herbs, and supplements to naturally take care of your body, boost immunity, and help your body fight off sickness & infection. We have talked about important vitamins and minerals and foods you can eat to support a stronger immune system.

Let's talk about some herbal remedies!

There are different ways that herbs can help boost the body’s immunity: by working directly with the immune system, by aiding the body to better deal with stress, and by helping the body fight infection.

You can boost your immunity with these herbs:

• Astragalus

• Bonset

• Calendula

• Echinacea

• Lemon balm

• Milk thistle

• Pau-d’arco

You can help your body fight infection with:

• Cat's claw tea with ginger

• Echinacea

• Grapefruit seed extract

• Oregano oil - potent anti-bacterial agent - use as short term remedy only

You can use adaptogens to help the body better deal with stress – which suppresses the immune system:

• Ashwagandha

• Tulsi (Holy Basil)

• Shisandra Berry

• Eleuthero/Siberian Ginseng

• Rhodiola

• Passionflower

What are 1-2 herbs you want to add in to your regimen this week?

Reference:

Holford, P. The New Optimum Nutrition Bible. Crossing Press, Berkley. 2004.

Glastar, R., Herbal Recipes For Vibrant Health. Storey Publishing, 2008.