As the leaves begin to fall and temperatures drop, the familiar cold and flu season looms on the horizon. Each year, countless individuals find themselves grappling with sniffles, fevers, and aches, often seeking both conventional and alternative remedies. This annual health challenge prompts many to wonder: How can we better fortify our defenses? In this article, we will delve into nature’s medicine cabinet, exploring a range of natural supplements reputed to bolster the immune system. By harnessing the power of these remedies, we aim to equip our readers with knowledge that could reduce the likelihood of succumbing to the flu.
Discover 9 Immune Boosting Supplements
If you want to build a strong and robust immune system to prevent colds and flu, consider incorporating these immune-boosting supplements into your routine:
1. Elderberry Syrup: Formed from the dried berries of the Sambucus Nigra plant, Elderberry Syrup contains natural immune-boosting properties. Typically, the syrup is prepared by combining the berries with cinnamon, raw honey, and ginger. However, it is important to note that children under two should not consume it due to the inclusion of raw honey.
Why Choose Elderberry Syrup?
Research shows that Elderberry Syrup can reduce the duration and severity of the cold and flu.
Regular consumption of Elderberry Syrup helps keep your immune system strong and prevents illness.
Elderberries contain Vitamin A, C, and B, and stimulate the immune system.
The syrup offers the most concentrated form of the berries and tastes great.
2. Vitamin C: Also known as L-ascorbic acid, Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin. It plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, L-carnitine production, protein metabolism, and most importantly, boosting the immune system. As an antioxidant, Vitamin C helps regenerate other antioxidants.
Why Choose Vitamin C?
Vitamin C helps produce white blood cells and protects them from free radicals.
It facilitates iron absorption, which is essential for those with anemia. Anemia weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illness.
When feeling sick, take 1000mg of Vitamin C three times a day until diarrhea occurs.
3. Colloidal Silver: Composed of tiny particles of silver suspended in liquid, Colloidal Silver can be taken internally, sprayed, or applied topically.
Why Choose Colloidal Silver?
Colloidal Silver boosts the immune system and has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Hospitals often use silver to combat harmful organisms, including MRSA.
When bacteria encounter colloidal silver, the silver attaches to the bacteria and kills it.
Contrary to the myth of turning your skin blue, ingesting the recommended amount of colloidal silver for cold and flu season will not cause any discoloration.
4. Mushroom Complex:
Throughout history, various mushrooms have been esteemed not just as culinary delicacies but as potent medicinal agents. A well-formulated mushroom complex merges the individual strengths of several mushroom varieties, such as Reishi, Maitake, Shiitake, and Coriolus, which are often extracted through a hot water process to retain their active compounds.
The Science Behind Mushroom Complexes:
Numerous scientific studies have underscored the immune-boosting properties of these mushrooms. For instance:
Reishi: Often dubbed the “king of mushrooms,” Reishi has been found to enhance the activity of white blood cells, playing a pivotal role in warding off infections.
Maitake: Research indicates that Maitake may stimulate the body’s immune cells, fortifying its defense mechanisms against pathogens.
Shiitake: Beyond its rich flavor profile, Shiitake is documented to boost immunity and even possesses antiviral properties.
Coriolus: Also known as turkey tail, Coriolus has been linked to increased immune response and is being investigated for its potential anti-cancer properties.
Why Embrace the Benefits of Mushroom Complexes?
Incorporating a mushroom complex into one’s wellness routine can offer a plethora of health benefits. Its robust formulation not only aids in preventing illnesses but can potentially expedite recovery, curbing the overall duration of sickness. Furthermore, many have reported a marked reduction in respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing and phlegm production, upon its regular intake. Beyond these advantages, mushroom complexes also act as adaptogens, helping improve energy levels and bolstering the body’s resilience against stress. The intersection of tradition and science, these complexes harness nature’s wisdom to reinforce our immune defenses.
5. Oregano Oil: Oregano oil is a concentrated form of the leaves and shoots of the herb oregano, typically found in gel capsules.
Why Choose Oregano Oil?
Oregano oil acts as an antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant agent.
It has been shown to combat Candida, a common culprit behind gut issues, yeast infections, thrush, and certain skin rashes.
Be cautious of decreased absorption of copper, iron, and zinc when taking oregano oil.
6.N-Acetyl Cysteine
N-acetyl cysteine, or NAC, is a potent antioxidant and a precursor to the master antioxidant glutathione. This compound has garnered attention from the scientific community for its potential to support immune function. NAC assists in mucus thinning, which can be beneficial for respiratory health, ensuring pathogens are efficiently expelled.