There are many ways you can keep your immune system healthy and one of those ways are herbs. Many of the herbs listed here you can grow in your garden or in pots on your deck or patio.
When your immune system is at peak performance, it is an incredibly fine-tuned machine. Exposure to potentially harmful pathogens is all it takes to kick it into high gear to create a defense of specialized cells, tissues, proteins, and organs to keep the invaders in check so that they can’t take over.
Many herbs have traditionally been used to support your immune system. These botanical gems promote a healthy response to stress, support healthy inflammatory responses and promote a naturally healthy microbial balance in the GI tract.
Immune System Herbs
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) berries are known for their high levels of vitamins A, B, and C, as well as flavonoids, which are anti-inflammatory compounds that promote healthy cellular functioning.
The dark hued berries are commonly made into a syrup or tincture and taken to boost your immunity. The tincture is added by the dropper to a glass of water and the syrup can reduce your flu symptoms within 24 hours, reducing your overall recovery time by three days. Best of all, elderberry syrup is easy to make and delicious to add to your daily life. Drizzle a spoonful over your oatmeal or add a dollop to your sparkling water and your body will appreciate the boost to its immunity. If you feel yourself getting sick, taking a serving of elderberry syrup within 24 hours may help ease your symptoms.
I sell both elderberry tincture and syrup in my online shop. Click the store tab above to access my shop.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) works as a detoxifying and penetrating herb to open up your pores and thin out mucus so you don’t stay congested. Drinking a cup of thyme leaf tea when you feel ill will help you expel phlegm and soothe inflamed tissue in your lungs.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) leaves are an excellent natural source of B vitamins and vitamin C, calcium, and potassium. Peppermint has long been used as a natural fever remedy especially taken as tea drinking several cups throughout the day. The tea improves your immunity by lowering stress, helping you feel calmer. This herb fends off microbes, soothes your digestive system, and clears nasal passageways by breaking up phlegm making it ideal for recovering from the flu.
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous) is an adaptogen helping support your body’s adrenals by allowing your body to naturally adapt to daily stress. The root promotes healthy resistance from physical and emotional stressors, and it also supports healthy immune functions. Astragalus supports the liver and your immune system at the cellular level. It is best used as a daily remedy to build immune strength as its medicine is slow and sustained, with full benefits reached after weeks of daily ingestion. Throw some root slices in broth, stews or soups, the long simmering of the soup allows the health benefits of the root to infuse in your food. Take the roots out before serving.
Hot peppers (any variety) cultures around the world regularly incorporate spicy foods into their diets, and for good reason. Capsaicin, the pungent component of hot peppers, is very useful for treating infections by boosting the immune system. Hot peppers have potent anti-fungal, anti-parasitic, and antibacterial properties.
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea and angustifolia) is one of the best-known and most extensively studied herbs. Echinacea is used to fight any infection in the body, but is particularly effective against infections of the upper respiratory tract. The roots, seeds and fresh flowers are all medicinal and make a tingly tasting, immune-stimulating tea or tincture.
Olive leaf (Olea europaea) helps maintain healthy immune function. Olive leaf extract has the ability to directly penetrate infected cells and stop viral replication. Research shows oleuropein, the main component in olive leaf extract, has antioxidant, antibacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-stimulating properties.
A healthy immune system reduces your chance of viral infection and flu. Using herbs in your food or taken as teas or tinctures to boost your immune system, you can achieve a healthy immune system.
