Top Herbs for Immune Support: Natural Ways to Strengthen Your Defenses

Building up your immune system is important to fight disease and infection. You can do this by changing your diet, taking certain vitamin supplements and also by using certain herbs. Herbs have been used in Eastern medicine and are currently important among alternative treatments in Western nations. The following herbs are known to support the immune system.

Echinacea

• Echinacea increases the level of properdin in the body. This is a chemical that is responsible for fending off bacteria and viruses.

Goldenseal

• Goldenseal helps to stimulate the immune system by increasing the production and effectiveness of white blood cells. It is particularly good for helping to fight against parasites.

Astragalus

• Astragalus is one of the most popular herbs in Chinese medicine. It helps to boost the immune system by increasing the efficiency of white blood cells.

Garlic

• Garlic provides good circulation, fights infections and helps to build up the immune system, thanks to its high levels of selenium and an anti-bacterial sulfur compound known as allicin.

Cayenne

• Cayenne is especially good at fighting off bacteria that causes the common cold. It increases white blood cell count and also helps to treat sore throats.