Top 10 herbs and spices for
strengthening your immune system
Monday, April 09, 2012 by: Aurora
Geib
(NaturalNews) Of the many systems working
within the human body, the immune system is an excellent example of complex
efficiency. A network of participating cells and organs, it synchronizes its
responses when defending the body from infection and disease.
In its element, it has the capacity to
remember diseases it has encountered and produce secretions and cells that can
effectively defend the body from another recurrence. Moreover, it has an
advanced communication system that can trigger an immediate response to an
emergency and act according to the severity of the infection. Activated immune
cells start producing substances that allow it to recruit other immune cells
and guide it to the site of attack while at the same time allowing it to
control behavior and growth.
However, when the system malfunctions by
causing an inappropriate response to substances or cells that are native to the
body, it causes autoimmune diseases that will require the intervention of
medication that will suppress the system's response. What causes the system to
malfunction, however, is still unclear. It is believed that exposure to some
drugs or bacteria by people with susceptible genes cause this phenomenon.
When totally compromised the body is left defenseless, thus leaving it vulnerable to disease.
When totally compromised the body is left defenseless, thus leaving it vulnerable to disease.
Helping
the body's defense system
The body's defense system is only as
dependable as the support it gets. Some people are just blessed with a good set
of genes that ensure a strong immune system. For others
who are not as lucky, they must work for immunity by observing proper
nutrition, sufficient rest, a healthy active lifestyle, plenty of sun and
reduced stress. Recent studies have shown that getting enough of these while
cutting down on unhealthy habits and avoiding processed foods restores the
immune system to peak performance.
Observing proper sanitation also plays a
vital role in keeping the immune system working. It is recognized as the best
preventive medicine and its actual practice can reduce outbreaks and diseases,
translating to significant economic, environmental as well as social benefits.
Antibiotics and vaccination as remedies to
assist the body's defenses against disease have now been debunked by recent
findings. Of late, antibiotics have been shown to attack beneficial bacteria in
the stomach and suppress immune functions.
Foods
that naturally boost the immune system
Foods that boost the body's immune system can offer a lot of healthy
options for those who wish to be more conscious in what they take in. To be
sustained, the immune system heavily depends on the stomach for support.
Malnourished individuals are more susceptible to disease as opposed to those
who observe a healthy nutritious diet. Below are some of these examples:
1. Echinacea - Echinacea is a popular herb that has been identified
to boost immunity. Combined with goldenseal, another herb, or enjoyed alone as
tea, this member of the daisy family has been found to prevent and treat upper
respiratory tract infections as well as the common cold.
2. Ginseng - This herb has many varieties. The most commonly
studied variety is Panax ginseng, also known as Korean ginseng. Its main active
component, ginsenosides, has been proven to have anti-inflammatory and
anti-cancer properties. Clinical research studies have demonstrated that it may
improve immune and psychological functions as well as conditions related to
diabetes.
3. Garlic - This spice has had a long history of medicinal value.
In a recent study conducted by Dr. Ellen Tattelman, an assistant professor at
the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, New York,
it was reconfirmed that garlic indeed has cardiovascular, anti-microbial and
antineoplastic properties. It's also a perfect spice to use when doing sauteed
dishes.
4. Bell peppers- This pepper variety does not contain capsaicin,
unlike its other feisty cousins. On the contrary, it is sweet and crunchy and
contains the carotenoid lycopene which lowers the risk of cancer; beta-carotene
which is converted to vitamin A; and Zeaxanthin, known to prevent macular
degeneration and cataracts.
5. Ginger - This herb has been shown to reduce inflammation,
cardiovascular conditions, blood clots and cholesterol. In a study, researchers
found that animal subjects given ginger extracts had a significant reduction in
cholesterol and blood clotting qualities. Moreover, it has been observed to
inhibit the behavior of genes connected with inflammation.
6. Turmeric- This spice contains curcumin, which has notable antioxidant properties. It also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and stomach soothing benefits. It reduces inflammation by stimulating the adrenal glands to increase the hormone that lessens inflammation. Animal studies on this herb have revealed that turmeric protects the liver from the adverse effects of alcohol and certain toxins. Turmeric also helps in digestive problems by stimulating bile flow.
6. Turmeric- This spice contains curcumin, which has notable antioxidant properties. It also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and stomach soothing benefits. It reduces inflammation by stimulating the adrenal glands to increase the hormone that lessens inflammation. Animal studies on this herb have revealed that turmeric protects the liver from the adverse effects of alcohol and certain toxins. Turmeric also helps in digestive problems by stimulating bile flow.
7. Gingko Biloba- Gingko biloba's leaves contain antioxidant
compounds called bilobalides and ginkgolides that protect the body from damage caused by free
radicals. Moreover, it has also been found to protect against radiation. In a
study using animal subjects, ginkgo was demonstrated to have protected the test
subjects against radiation poisoning. The latest research also suggests that
extracts of this herb can neutralize oxidizing agents and free radicals caused
in the cells due to radiation, thus preventing cell death. In fact, NaturalNews
recently reported that ginkgo extracts reduce brain damage by up to 50 percent.
8. Ganoderma- This is a bitter mushroom also known as reishi. It
has long been a popular herb in Chinese medicine attributed to assisting in
longevity and health. Further studies on this oriental herb reveal that it
strengthens immunity and combats cancer. Moreover, it has antioxidant
properties and provides relief from urinary tract infections.
9. Astragalus - Also from China, this herb stimulates the immune
system and aids in digestion and adrenal gland functions. It is also a
diuretic. The effectiveness of this herb is due to polysaccharides, saponins
and flavonoids. It has also been taken to combat the common cold and flu. Its
digestive health benefits demonstrate the lowering of stomach acidity,
resulting to an increase in the body's metabolic rates and the promotion of
waste elimination.
10. Cat's claw - This herb from Peru is commonly used for stomach
problems. Recently, however, it is becoming known as an exceptional immune
response stimulator that helps the body to fight off infections and
degenerative diseases. It contains oxindole alkaloids enhancing the immune
system's capacity to engulf and destroy pathogens.
From a practical perspective, taking in food which boosts the immune
system while enjoying it at the same time can be a cost effective way to
maintain health. Coupled with a healthy lifestyle, sufficient rest and a
positive outlook in life, staying healthy does not have to cost an arm and a
leg.
Sources for this article:
http://www.immunesystemremedies.com/food-for-the-immune-system.html
http://www.sanitation-is-dignity.org/why_sanitation
http://immunedisorders.homestead.com/antibiotics.html
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/echinacea-000239.htm
http://www.aafp.org/afp/2003/1015/p1539.html
http://www.naturalnews.com/027469_ginkgo_biloba_radiation_damage.html
http://altmedicine.about.com/od/herbsupplementguide/a/ganoderma.htm
http://www.naturalnews.com/027223_ASTRAGALUS_immune_system.html
http://www.naturalnews.com/032917_cats_claw_herb.html
http://www.naturalnews.com/035530_immune_system_herbs_spices.html#ixzz2Ml4ZRRM2
http://www.sanitation-is-dignity.org/why_sanitation
http://immunedisorders.homestead.com/antibiotics.html
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/echinacea-000239.htm
http://www.aafp.org/afp/2003/1015/p1539.html
http://www.naturalnews.com/027469_ginkgo_biloba_radiation_damage.html
http://altmedicine.about.com/od/herbsupplementguide/a/ganoderma.htm
http://www.naturalnews.com/027223_ASTRAGALUS_immune_system.html
http://www.naturalnews.com/032917_cats_claw_herb.html
http://www.naturalnews.com/035530_immune_system_herbs_spices.html#ixzz2Ml4ZRRM2
If you want to punch up the healing power of your chicken soup -- or any other dish -- add plenty of garlic and onions. When combined, these flavorful healers contain numerous antiseptic and immunity boosting compounds. As an added plus, garlic helps to open clogged sinuses.
Mushrooms:
No herbal medicine cabinet should be without mushrooms. They increase the production of cytokines, which are cells that help fight off infection. They also contain polysaccharides, which are compounds that support the immune system. The most potent cold- and flu-fighting shrooms are shitake, maitake and reishi.
Citrus Fruits:
Citrus fruits contain hefty doses of powerhouse vitamin C. Studies have found that this antioxidant can reduce cold symptoms by 23 per cent, and all that's needed is just one to eight grams (1,000 to 8,000 milligrams) to do the trick. Besides citrus fruits, other foods that have high amounts of vitamin C include papaya, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, tomatoes, broccoli, brussel sprouts and red bell peppers.
Yogurt:
Studies have shown that eating a cup of low-fat yogurt each day can reduce your susceptibility to colds by 25 percent. The beneficial bacteria is Lactobacillus reuteri which has been found to block the replication of viruses that invade the body when we get sick. Not all brands have that particular bacteria, so check labels and be sure to go organic.
Immune-Boosting Supplements:
While yogurt is a great source of probiotics, some have more than others and we can really benefit by taking an additional supplement. Other immune-booster "musts" are vitamin D and Omega 3 fatty acid.
Hot Tea:
Hot tea is soothing and a great home remedy, helping to thin mucus and ensure proper hydration. For added health benefit, sip green or black tea -- both are filled with flavonoids, which are potent antioxidants.
Ginger:
Ginger comes to the aid when we're sick in some powerful ways. Besides soothing a scratchy throat, it has chemicals called sesquiterpenes that target rhinoviruses -- which are the most common family of cold viruses -- as well as substances that help suppress coughing. Ginger is also a natural pain and fever reducer and a mild sedative so you -- ll feel more comfortable and be able to rest easier. Add a couple of tablespoons of shredded gingerroot to your tea, or make ginger tea (it comes in tea bags, but you can also simmer fresh sliced ginger to make a potent brew).
Honey:
Honey has numerous medicinal properties and because it coats your throat it is a natural way to soothe sore throats. It also has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties to help fight infections from viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Skip the common clover honey that you'll find in the supermarket as it has the lowest antioxidant level. Look for buckwheat honey, which has the highest. (A note of caution: never give honey to children under one years of age because their immune systems are not developed enough to ward off infantile botulism, which is carried in honey spores.)
Black Pepper
It's ironic that black pepper -- the spice best known for making you sneeze -- can ward off the sniffles. Black peppercorns are high in piperine, a compound known for its anti-fever and pain-relieving qualities.
Spices
Make recipes more flavorful with garlic, thyme, rosemary, sage and oregano -- while spicing things up, you'll also get an added kick of immune-busters, too.
Tiada ulasan:
Catat Ulasan
Nota: Hanya ahli blog ini sahaja yang boleh mencatat ulasan.