Herbs and Spices to Boost Your Immunity Naturally!

The most important factor in building a strong immune system is to get the vitamins and minerals your body needs through a healthful diet. These herbs and spices offer additional immune-supporting properties.

Garlic contains the active ingredient allicin, which boosts the body’s natural defenses against germs. Try eating a clove of raw garlic daily, or taking concentrated allicin extract as a supplement.

Echinacea

Echinacea (pronounced en-chee-a) is part of the daisy family and has been used for centuries to support the immune system. It is most famous as a natural remedy for colds and flu but it can be taken to help with many health issues.

It helps to prevent the length and severity of a cold, reduces symptoms such as sore throat, runny nose and congestion, and it can soothe common skin problems like acne. Echinacea also contains a number of plant compounds that stimulate the immune system and make your body’s defenses work better.

You can find echinacea in herbal supplements in tablet form, as well as in tinctures and liquid extracts. Choose a supplement that is registered with the Traditional Herbal Remedies scheme in Europe to ensure quality and safety. Avoid taking echinacea if you have a liver disorder or are taking medications that suppress the immune system, such as corticosteroids. It can also cause allergic reactions in some people.

Elderberry

Elderberry, known scientifically as Sambucus nigra, is a dark purple berry native to Europe that has been used for centuries for its immune-boosting properties. It is thought to have been cultivated by prehistoric man and has been documented in medicinal recipes as far back as Hippocrates, the “Father of Medicine.”

Research suggests that elderberry extract may reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms, especially when taken as soon as symptoms begin. It also appears to prevent the release of proinflammatory cytokines, which are released in response to certain infections and can lead to a “cytokine storm” that leads to multiorgan failure and death.

While elderberry syrup or supplements can certainly help boost immunity, most naturopathic doctors would recommend it as part of an overall immunosupportive protocol that includes getting enough sleep and managing stress, along with a balanced anti-inflammatory diet and other supplements such as zinc and vitamin D. And don’t forget — always consult your doctor before starting any new supplement!

Astragalus

Astragalus is an adaptogen, a plant that can help your body adjust to stress. In China, it's called huang qi and was described in the 1911 herbal classic "Chinese Materia Medica" as "an extremely important herb for restoring vitality." It also is known to improve heart and kidney health, fight diabetes and cancer and promote wound healing.

Research shows astragalus can increase your body's production of white blood cells, which are your immune system's best defense against infection (5). It may also help treat bacterial and viral infections, such as the common cold. In addition, a combination of astragalus root and glossy privet fruit, Baikal skullcap root and Eupolyphaga et polyphaga (Ailing granules) may prevent and reduce symptoms of HIV/AIDS, including fatigue, nausea and diarrhea (6, 7, 8).

You can find astragalus in powder or in tinctures (liquid concentrates). Try adding one to three teaspoons of dried root to tea, or take a standardized extract in 30 percent ethanol capsules or tablets three times a day.

Angelica

Angelica is a member of the Apiaceae family and belongs to the species Angelica archangelica (also known as wild celery or Norwegian angelica). This aromatic herb thrives in cool, damp soil and has long, spindle-shaped roots and stout fluted stems that can reach up to six feet tall. It has large green leaves and umbrella-like clusters of white flowers.

It has been used as a medicinal plant for centuries in Europe and is commonly found in herbal formulas for respiratory support and to relieve aches and pains. It is a gentle diaphoretic that has warming properties to promote circulation, which makes it an excellent herb for cold and flu season.

Also referred to as dong quai in traditional Chinese medicine, this herb is often sold as a capsule, tincture or extract. To harvest, cut fresh angelica stems into two- to four-inch pieces. Boil the stems in a pot of water containing baking soda for five minutes, then shock them in ice water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

It is best to pick up fresh herbs whenever possible when using herbs.

Although dried herbs are convenient, they don’t provide the same benefits as fresh herbs.

Fresh herbs contain essential oils that give your food a unique flavor. These oils help preserve the nutrients within the herb.

Dried herbs lose all their flavor after drying, so they cannot replace fresh herbs.

You should only use dried herbs if you absolutely must. Otherwise, you should get your fresh herbs from the market.

What is the difference between "regular" and smoked paprika powder?

Regular Paprika Powder (Piment d'Espelette) is an essential ingredient for our recipes. We use it for its intense flavor and color. It's also used as a spice and seasoning agent. Smoked Paprika Powder (Paprika Chorizo) adds a smoky taste and aroma to dishes. Both types of Paprika Powder come from Spain, where they grow the best peppers in the world.

Smoked Paprika Powder (Chorizo Paprika) is made from red peppers, which are dried slowly in special ovens. This gives them a rich flavor. They are then ground and mixed with salt, garlic, and spices.

Regular Paprika Powder (Espelette Paprika) is made by grinding green bell peppers without additives.

How is basil used for medicinal purposes?

In ancient times, doctors would prescribe basil leaves to treat colds and coughs. Today, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal remedy for arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, eczema, gout, hay fever, indigestion, migraines, menstrual cramps, sinus infections, sore throats, ulcers, varicose veins, and more.

Basil is also known for its ability to help protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, skin conditions, and even aging.

Basil is often referred to as "the herb of grace" because it helps us relax and unwind after stressful situations. It is also said to improve memory and concentration, boost energy levels, increase libido, and enhance athletic performance.

The list goes on and on. Basil is a versatile plant that offers a wide range of benefits for our health and well-being.

Is it safe to eat raw garlic?

Raw garlic contains potent compounds that could cause stomach upset. Garlic should always be cooked before eating.

Garlic is one of the oldest known medicinal plants. It has been used since ancient times to treat various ailments.

Today, garlic is still commonly used for treating colds, coughs, and other respiratory infections. In addition, garlic can increase blood circulation, boost immunity, protect against cancer, lower cholesterol levels, prevent heart disease, and reduce stress.

Do not ingest large amounts of raw garlic to avoid possible health problems. It does not harm you if you consume small amounts regularly, however. This is especially true with young children who might accidentally swallow some.

How to make herbal remedies at home?

Making herbal remedies at home is easy. All you need is fresh herbs, water, salt, and sugar. You can use any herb, depending on what you want to create.

For example, choose mint, basil, chamomile, or lemon balm to make a soothing tea. If you want to make a cooling drink, try rosemary, thyme, lavender, or eucalyptus.

All you need to do is put all the ingredients into a pot and boil them until they become soft. Strain out the herbs and serve hot.

Add honey to the boiling mixture to make a tonic drink. Honey is a preservative and will keep your herbal remedy fresh for longer.

You can also combine two or three herbs to make a more potent brew. For instance, you could mix equal parts of garlic and ginger to make a powerful antiseptic. Or you can combine equal amounts of turmeric and ginger to make a potent immune booster.

Soak a clean cloth in warm water and place it over the affected area to make a compress. Leave it for 10 minutes before removing it. Do this every day until the swelling goes down.

Make sure you consult your doctor first before using herbal remedies. Some plants may interact negatively with other medications. Also, don't take large quantities of herbs because they can cause side effects.

Is eating raw basil good for you?

I'm sure everyone knows that fresh herbs are great for cooking but did you know that you could eat them too? Raw, uncooked herbs are packed full of nutrients and vitamins that we normally have to cook.

They contain more antioxidants than any fruit or vegetable. And they also help our immune systems stay strong and healthy.

The best way to enjoy these delicious little green gems is to eat them raw from the garden. But there's nothing wrong with enjoying them cooked, either. They taste even better when sautéed in olive oil and served alongside pasta or rice.

There are lots of ways to incorporate raw herbs into recipes. Add them to salads, soups, sandwiches, wraps, omelets, stir-fries, and pesto.

Just make sure you wash them well first!

Statistics

• The herbs market is highly competitive, with over 1,000 herb suppliers and over 15,000 herbs products available in the United States alone.
• The global herbs market is expected to reach more than $125 billion by the end of 2025.

External Links

[TAG52]

• Antioxidant capacity of 26 spice extracts and characterization of their phenolic constituents - PubMed


• Cinnamon: A Multifaceted Medicinal Plant - PMC

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• Amazon.com: Starwest Botanicals Organic Bilberries Whole, 4 Ounces: Grocery & Gourmet Food

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• Efficacy and Adverse Effects of Ginkgo Biloba for Cognitive Impairment and Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - IOS Press

[TAG59]

• Ashwagandha | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center


• Grape Seed | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

How To

What to look for in herbs?

Herbs contain natural compounds that may help treat various conditions. In addition, herbal remedies may provide relief when used along with conventional treatments.

Herbal remedies include teas, capsules, tablets, ointments, creams, lotions, oils, and topical applications. Some of these products are meant to be taken internally, while others are applied externally.

The most common uses of herbal remedies include relieving minor aches and pains, treating cold symptoms, reducing fever, controlling coughs and sore throats, easing digestion problems, soothing skin irritations, alleviating menstrual cramps, and providing general health benefits.

When buying herbs, look for the following:

• Freshly picked plants. Avoid dried herbs unless they've been stored in a cool place. If possible, buy herbs directly from farmers' markets.
• Pure extracts. These are made by extracting the active ingredients from herbs using alcohol or water. Look for 100% pure extractions.
• Certified organic herbs. Organic herbs must meet strict standards set forth by the USDA.
• Natural flavors. Many herbs have strong scents that can overwhelm other foods. Adding flavorings such as vanilla, almond, or orange helps mask their smell.
• Potency. The amount of active ingredient per unit weight varies depending on the type of herb.
• Packaging. When purchasing herbs, check the packaging to ensure that it's clean and free of chemicals.

Resources:

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