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While classic nutrients like vitamins C, D, and zinc are well-known for strengthening immune defences and reducing the severity of colds and flu, herbs offer a powerful, natural boost that complements these essential nutrients.
As we head into the winter months, maintaining optimal levels of these immune-supportive nutrients through diet and supplementation is key for staying resilient.
To take it a step further, we can also look to herbs, which offer a unique, holistic approach to nourishing the immune system. These time-honored botanicals prepare the body to face the seasonal uptick in germs we’re exposed to, helping you stay healthy all winter long.
In this week's blog we are going to delve into 5 of the most researched herbs for fortifying immunity and safeguarding against acute illnesses.
The Relationship Between Herbs and the Immune System
The immune system is a complex network made up of various cells, organs, and tissues spread throughout the body, each playing a role in defending against illness. Key players include white blood cells, the thymus gland, spleen, skin, and mucous membranes, which form vital barriers against pathogens. Additionally, the lymphatic and endocrine systems are closely intertwined with immune function, and their health is a critical factor in how effectively the immune system performs. Herbs often work to support several facets of immunity. By supporting these different components, botanicals can help the immune system function as a cohesive, well-coordinated network.
In general, herbs are known for their ability to support multiple bodily systems simultaneously, helping the body organize its defenses. They benefit immunity in two primary ways: preventively and therapeutically. When used preventively, herbs can fortify immune health by optimizing cellular function, promoting the formation of resilient immune cells, and counteracting stressors that may weaken immunity.
Therapeutically, certain herbs can be used at the onset of illness to reduce symptoms and potentially shorten recovery time. In this blog, we’ll explore specific herbs that are especially helpful during the winter months, focusing on those that strengthen immune defenses and support resilience against seasonal illnesses.
5 Herbs to Fortify the Immune System
Our top five herbs for building immune resilience are licorice, astragalus, reishi, schisandra, and elderberry. Known as immune tonics, these herbs also belong to a special herbal class called adaptogens.
Adaptogens are traditionally recognized for their ability to support the body’s response to stress and combat fatigue—two factors known to weaken immune defenses. Beyond these benefits, adaptogens help regulate key immune pathways and primarily strengthen the innate immune response, which targets unfamiliar pathogens that the body hasn’t previously encountered.
Incorporating adaptogens daily during the winter months can be especially helpful for offsetting the seasonal dip in energy and managing the added stress of the holidays. By addressing deep-seated fatigue, they help maintain strong, resilient immune defenses. Let’s take a closer look at how each of these herbs can uniquely support your health.
Licorice
Licorice is known as the master regulator of the herbal world and is often included in herbal formulas to enhance the effectiveness of other herbs. It strengthens immune function as an immunomodulator, promoting a balanced immune response. With mild antimicrobial properties, licorice helps clear pathogens that can place additional stress on the immune system. Additionally, it acts as a tonic for the spleen and lungs—two organs essential to immune health.
Featured Products: Harmonic Arts Licorice Tincture & St. Francis Deep Immune Tincture
Astragalus
Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, astragalus is a powerful tonic that strengthens and safeguards the immune system. It enhances immune function by stimulating the synthesis of white blood cells, promoting interferon production, and boosting natural killer (NK) cell activity. These effects help guard against infections. It is best used preventatively, as the benefits are cumulative with consistent, long-term use.
Featured Products: St. Francis Deep Immune, Rhoziva Immune, Harmonic Arts Immune Depth
Reishi
Reishi is a renowned and classic immune-supportive herb that helps balance the immune system,enhancing the overall quality of immune cells. It mitigates the physiological effects of stress, which can undermine the ability of immune cells to function at full capacity. Additionally, reishi promotes rejuvenating sleep, creating an opportunity for the immune system to repair and regenerate. Its immune-specific actions due to its beta glucan and triterpene content also include enhancing red blood cell formation and inhibiting viral replication.
Featured Products: Harmonic Arts Reishi tincture, capsules or powders
Schisandra
A classic adaptogen, schisandra helps dampen the stress response while serving as a comprehensive tonic for the body, promoting optimal health and wellness. Given that the immune system is dispersed throughout the body, schisandra plays a vital role in fortifying immune defenses, ensuring cells and systems are able to communicate effectively. It contains specific ligands with immunomodulating properties, as well as natural antimicrobial compounds that help combat infections. Additionally, schisandra is well-known for its ability to alleviate general fatigue and enhance vitality, making it an essential herb for overall wellness, particularly during the winter months when energy production and immune responses are down-regulated.
Featured Products: St. Francis Deep Immune
Elderberry
While not classified as an adaptogen, elderberry is a valuable addition to your winter wellness routine. It is traditionally used to prevent respiratory illnesses. Rich in anthocyanins, a class of antioxidants, elderberries have a positive impact on immune function by strengthening cellular membranes and potentially inhibiting viruses from entering cells, where they can replicate and cause cold and flu symptoms. Research indicates that elderberry may also reduce bacterial growth, boost white blood cell activity, and activate the immune system when needed. Additionally, it supports the health of mucous membranes, which serve as a crucial first line of defense against pathogens.
Featured Product: Harmonic Arts Elderberry Syrup
Incorporating these five powerful herbs into your winter wellness routine can provide significant support for your immune system. While traditional nutrients like vitamins C, D, and zinc lay the foundation for immune health, herbs like licorice, astragalus, reishi, schisandra, and elderberry offer unique benefits that enhance your body's defenses and overall resilience against seasonal illnesses. By embracing these time-honored botanicals, you can not only strengthen your immune response but also promote holistic well-being during the colder months. Make these herbs a part of your daily routine to help you navigate winter and holiday season with vitality and strength!
Author: Lisa Kowalyk, CNP, B.Kin
