Most people presume the cold winter months are a hotbed for infections but each season gives rise to different viruses and bacteria, all of which can cause infections. Luckily, the body has an inbuilt defence mechanism to protect against infections – the immune system. It is well understood that keeping the immune system in healthy shape can reduce the risk of falling ill throughout the year, but the body’s vital mechanism has become the focus of much attention in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
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COVID-19 is a new strain of respiratory virus that is causing widespread fatalities throughout the world.
There is currently no known way to protect yourself against the virus but official health bodies say that a weakened immune system heightens the risk of experiencing severe symptoms and complications.
It is therefore important to keep your immune system fighting fit.
According to Euan MacLennan, herbal director at Pukka Herbs and medical herbalist at a London-based NHS practice, there are a number of natural solutions shown to boost your immune system.
Here five such remedies:
Echinacea
Echinacea is an herbal supplement derived from the echinacea plant. According to MacLennan, echinacea is a renowned immune tonic with some very promising research.
“Echinacea can be particularly helpful for fighting infections of the respiratory tract,” he explained.
It has been shown to play a preventive role but also provide relief to symptoms and aid the recovery process, MacLennan added.
Elderberries
“Bursting with brightly coloured pigments that act as natural antioxidants, elderberries are a natural source of vitamin C,” explained MacLennan.
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Antioxidants are substances found in the body that are thought to counter the harmful effects of unstable molecules called free radicals that can damage the immune system.
According to MacLennan, elderberry is a powerful fruit shown to “de-activate” viruses, helping to stop them spreading through the body.
Vitamin C
“Well-known for supporting our immune function, vitamin C plays an important role in improving the activity of some white blood cells such as ‘natural killer cells’”, he explained.
According to MacLennan, this activity allows the body’s immune system to communicate and coordinate its attack against viruses.
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Andrographis
According to MacLennan, Andrographis is an herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote the production of antibodies and reduce the severity of infection.
“Andrographis contains compounds that rally the immune system to fight effectively against invaders such as viruses,” he explained.
Mushrooms
As MacLennon explained, there are approximately 400 species of fungi that have been identified with medicinal properties, and many have antiviral, antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory qualities.
He continued: “Mushrooms are high in beta glucans – natural substances found to help ‘prime’ our immune system, making sure it’s ready for action to fight off infection.”
Mushrooms can be easily added to meals or through daily doses of supplements.
In addition to eating a healthy diet, does exercise play a role in strengthening your immune system?
According to Harvard Health, like a healthy diet, exercise can contribute to general good health and therefore to a healthy immune system.
The health body explained: “It may contribute even more directly by promoting good circulation, which allows the cells and substances of the immune system to move through the body freely and do their job efficiently.”
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