The Best Herbs for the Immune System, Examined

Dr. Shawn Talbott (Ph.D., CNS, LDN, FACSM, FACN, FAIS) has gone from triathlon struggler to gut-brain guru! With a Ph.D. in Nutritional Biochemistry, he's on a mission to boost everyday human performance through the power of natural solutions and the gut-brain axis.

Your text here...When it comes to strengthening your immune system naturally, herbs can play a vital role.

For centuries, traditional medicine systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Native American folk medicine have relied on specific herbs to bolster immune health.

These herbs not only help prevent illnesses but also support your body in fighting infections and managing symptoms.

In this post, we will explore some of the best herbs for immune support and explain how they can enhance your body's natural defenses.

Alongside vitamins, herbs are an excellent natural option for boosting the immune system and enhancing overall health.

From prevention to symptom relief, these herbs offer a holistic approach to immune system care.

Here’s what you’ll find in this blog post:

  • A detailed look at the top herbs for immune system support
  • How astragalus, echinacea, goldenseal, and nettle leaf work to boost immunity
  • The difference between prevention herbs and herbs for short-term immune support
  • Research-backed benefits of each herb in fighting infections and supporting overall wellness
  • Important considerations when using these herbs for immune health

Herbs for Immune Support

Astragalus: A Prevention Herb

Astragalus has been used as an herbal “tonic” for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and in Native American folk medicine.

As a tonic, astragalus is used primarily as a “prevention” herb throughout the cold and flu season – a different usage than the more popular echinacea, which is best used for early stage treatment as soon as you feel a cold or flu coming on.

Research studies have shown that astragalus can help fight bacteria and viruses by enhancing various aspects of the body’s normal immune response, i.e. enhanced function of specific immune system cells such as T cells, lymphocytes, and neutrophils.

In TCM, astragalus is often combined with other “tonic” herbs such as ginseng, cordyceps, or ashwagandha, to keep the immune system “humming” during periods of high stress; each of these appear to be somewhat effective in increasing energy levels and (possibly) enhancing the immune-stimulating effects of astragalus.


Echinacea: Best for Short-Term Immune Support

Echinacea is the “King” of the immune function herbs (with over 300 scientific studies attesting to its immune enhancing effects).

It is important to note that the primary use of echinacea is in the acute (short-term) treatment of the common cold – NOT for prolonged use (past a few weeks) as general immune system support.

Also, echinacea is generally not recommended for use by individuals with autoimmune disorders (such as multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis) due to its immune stimulating properties.

The best use of echinacea is immediate consumption following acute exposure to an infected individual (meaning that as soon as Aunt Mary coughs on you, you should reach for the echinacea capsules).

Goldenseal: Immune Stimulation Through Berberine

Goldenseal is a popular herbal remedy for immune system stimulation, due to its high content of berberine.

Because of the “endangered” status of goldenseal, however, many consumers (and supplement manufacturers) are turning to other berberine-containing herbs such as barberry and Oregon grape, which also appear to be quite effective alternatives for immune system support.

Berberine has been shown to block the adherence of various infectious bacteria (such as streptococci) to the body’s respiratory linings. However, berberine-containing herbs are known to cause uterine contractions, so they should be avoided during pregnancy.

Nettle Leaf: Useful For Mild Allergic Conditions

Nettle leaf is an herbal treatment used for symptoms of hay fever and other mild allergic conditions.

It may act as a gentle antihistamine, helping to alleviate sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes without many of the common side effects of synthetic antihistamines (nervousness, insomnia, drowsiness).

Conclusion

Incorporating herbs into your daily routine can be a simple yet powerful way to support your immune system.

The best herbs for immune support offer a wide range of benefits, from preventing illness to boosting immune response when you’re feeling under the weather.

Whether you’re using astragalus for long-term protection, echinacea for acute support, or goldenseal and nettle leaf for specific conditions, these herbs provide natural solutions for enhancing overall wellness.

By embracing these herbal allies, you can help your body stay resilient and ready to defend against common ailments.

About the Author

Exercise physiologist (MS, UMass Amherst) and Nutritional Biochemist (PhD, Rutgers) who studies how lifestyle influences our biochemistry, psychology and behavior - which kind of makes me a "Psycho-Nutritionist"?!?!

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