5 Natural Ways to Rev Up Your Immune System!

Fall is here at last! I love the crispness of the air, the leaves changing colors, and the kick off to the countdown of two of my favorite holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas. That also means that it’s getting cooler outside which leads to the start of the dreaded cold and flu season. And now that Miss Rona has decided to come out to play, we also have that to think about. The good news is that you can use our very own gifts on Earth, herbs, as medicine and to intensify the vitality of our immune systems!

The beautiful thing about herbs is that you can utilize their benefits in various ways depending on your preference. There are capsules and tablets, tinctures, teas, infusions, and you can even apply them topically! I will introduce 5 herbs that you can use in different ways to boost your immune system. Let’s get to it.

ASTRAGALUS

Astragalus membranaceus has been used since ancient times in traditional Chinese medicine to strengthen immunity. It is one of the herbs known to stimulate the body’s natural production of the cells of the immune system. The root is used to make tinctures, decoction, syrups, capsules, or even dry fried and eaten with honey! The tincture, however, is not as effective as other forms of administration. It is important to note that this is NOT an herb for acute illnesses.

REISHI MUSHROOM

Reishi (Gandoderma lucidum) is a medicinal mushroom that exhibits immune-enhancing properties in a variety of ways including T-lymphocyte activation, stimulation of body’s own immune cells, and general improvement of immune-response activity. It is known as the queen healer mushroom and its Chinese name translates to “spirit plant” due to its ability to nourish the spirit and support longevity. It has numerous varieties including red, purple, blue-green, black, and white. The red and purple varieties are considered superior. This powerful herb can also provide stress relief and promote calmness and centered feelings (stay tuned for more of this plant later on!). These mushrooms are NOT edible.

ECHINACEA

Known by Indians in the 19th century as Indian Snakeroot, due to its ability to treat snake bites, Echinacea is widely known today due to its immune-enhancing properties. Its name is derived from the Greek word for hedgehog and is inspired by the flower's central cone. Echinacea purpurea aka the “purple coneflower” supports antibody formation, inhibits the ability of viruses to take over cells, and assists in the production of white blood cells. It also helps to strengthen and clear lymph nodes! The flower or the root are used in tinctures, decoctions, capsules or topically for bites and stings. The best quality root can leave a tingling sensation on the tongue. Echinacea is considered to be nontoxic and safe for children BUT should be used cautiously by those with auto-immune disorders due to their immune systems being overstimulated already.

SHIITAKE MUSHROOM

Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinus edodes) have been staples of Chinese and Japanese cuisine for hundreds of years. Research in more recent years shows that a chemical in the edible mushroom called lentinan can halt the growth of cancerous tumors in animals. They also contain cortinelin which is a strong antibacterial agent which can kill a wide range of germs that cause diseases. Shiitake mushrooms are nutritious, packed with protein and vitamins B1, B2, B12, niacin, and pantothenic acid or B5 which our bodies need to synthesize coenzyme A. These mushrooms can be eaten fresh or dried and reconstituted and used in soups, stews, and various noodle dishes!

MAITAKE

A potent immune-enhancing mushroom, Grifola frondosa, can be used to regulate the immune system. Maitake contains beta glucans which activate and increase production of cells of the immune system like macrophages, T-cells, natural killer cells, and neutrophils! These cells help our immune system fight illnesses quickly and more efficiently. You can dust fresh mushrooms with flour and pan fry in butter and olive oil, dry and enjoy in soups and stews for a surprisingly meaty, chicken-like flavor.

As you can see, there are many ways that you can utilize different plants for your benefit! As always, make sure to consult with a healthcare professional (hello) before using any herbs as they can interact with commercial medications or conditions. Thank you for visiting and make sure to stay tuned for more posts!