Top Five Herbs for Immune System Health
Astragalus, Cat's Claw, Echinacea, Elderberry and Ginseng
Aug 22, 2009
Next to a proper diet, the most important thing anyone can do to strengthen his immune system is to take immune stimulating herbs. This is especially important during cold and flu season, or for those with autoimmune or immunodeficiency diseases – for whom it can also provide unique challenges.
There are a wide variety of herbs that can be used to boost immune system health or treat specific problems. This article will focus solely on herbs for immune system health overall; for information on natural antivirals, see Natural Antiviral Alternatives.
Astragalus
Widely lauded as one of the top choices for overall immune system health. According to The Herbal Drugstore, by Linda B. White, MD, and Steven Foster (Rodale, 2003), "Many studies confirm immune-boosting, antiviral, antibacterial, and tonic properties. Shows promise in restoring [irregular] T-cell function." the most striking feature of this herb, however, is its ability to boost one part of the immune system while suppressing others, making it uniquely suited for those with autoimmune diseases, where certain parts of the immune system begin to attack their own body.
Cat's Claw
Several studies have found alkaloids in cat's claw that stimulate the method by which white blood cells defend the body. In addition, it has significant anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-cancer, and antioxidant properties.
Echinacea
According to National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine, by Steven Foster and Rebecca L. Johnson (National Geographic Society, 2006), "Laboratory and animal studies suggest echinacea contains active substances that stimulate the immune system to counter bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, reduce inflammation, strengthen blood vessels, destroy free radicals, increase active white blood cells in circulation, stimulate production of interferon (a natural antiviral substance), and prevent sun damage to the skin." It could almost be wondered what echinacea isn't capable of — proving again why it is so lauded as among the top choices for almost anything that ails you.
Elderberry
This herb has been shown to very strongly stimulate the immune system, most especially through boosting antibody production. This is especially true for upper respiratory infections, and according to Prescription for Herbal Healing, by Phyllis A. Balch (Avery, 2002), "has shown some activity in preliminary trials against [several] viruses."
Ginseng
Asian Ginseng - There is some evidence that Asian ginseng may boost the activity of certain white blood cell types, which might help to stimulate immune system effectiveness.
Siberian Ginseng (aka Eleuthero) - According to Pres. for Herbal Healing, eleuthero is "an immune stimulant that is especially useful for preventing infection during times of intense physical activity and prolonged periods of stress." In addition, it seems to especially target the stimulation of T-helper and natural killer cells, which might make it a good candidate for some autoimmune disease sufferers.
For a look at more than just herbs, try reading Natural Immune System Boosters.
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