Effective Supplements for Boosting the Immune System

2011-04-15 / Supplements / 0 Comments

In our environment there are a huge variety of pathogens – viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa – and multicellular parasites. The penetration in the human body of these organisms can cause disease, and/or, if propagated uncontrolled, even death. The ability of the body to resist to various pathogenic microbes depends on the immune system. The immune system is an amazing mechanism that protects us from various pathogenic microbes and their negative effect on our body and health. There are two types of immune system:

Phagocytes and Inherent Immune System – An important group of white blood cells are phagocytes: monocytes, macrophages, and polymorphonuclear neutrophils. They are capable of binding microorganisms, and then engulf and destroy them. Phagocytes form the first line of defense against infection.
Lymphocyte and Acquired Immune System – Another important group of white blood cells is lymphocytes. They have a leading role in all the reactions of acquired immunity, since they specifically recognize a particular pathogen, wherever it may be, inside or outside of cells, tissues, fluid or blood.

There are many ways of how to boost the immune system, including conventional medicine and non traditional methods. For a healthy individual, who does not have any serious diseases, it is not recommended to use traditional immunology treatments on a regular basis. As the immune system can get use to these immune boost intakes and will not be able to perform well on its own.

Some of the well known non-traditional immune systems boosters are as follows:

Garlic Garlic – a good indicator of the fact that the plant can be both a source of food and medicine. Garlic contains volatile oils and bactericidal substances, so often used as a disinfectant. Garlic is rich in vitamin C, carbohydrates, polysaccharides, insulin, phytosterols, vitamins A, B, D, PP, and minerals (iodine, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium), trace elements, and organic acids. Garlic is widely used in medicine as an antiviral agent.
Cordyceps is a natural remedy that boosts the immune system and helps to maintain the normal function of the body. Cordyceps comes in two forms: powder and extract. A considerable amount of research has been done in the effect of Cordyceps on the immune system. It was scientifically proven that Cordyceps stimulates the activity and production of T-lymphocytes (natural killer cells) and other immunocompetent cells. Cordyceps increases the number of leukocytes, regulates secretion of hormones, stimulates the proliferation of spleen, and regulates the biochemical processes in the body. Cordyceps has a strong stimulating effect on the cardiovascular system, including regulation of red blood cells and platelets production. Cordyceps also activates the metabolism and synthesis of red blood cells. Cordyceps is often recommended for increasing energy while recovering from an operation or a serious illness.
Echinacea The healing power of Echinacea is in its root. Echinacea enhances immunologic activity, promotes the development of interferon, prevents the penetration of microorganisms in the human body and accelerates their destruction. To stimulate the immune system, it is recommended to take Echinacea by courses: 2-3 weeks, then a few weeks – a break. Most effective impact is felt in the first 10 days of administration.

It is important to remember that a well balanced diet, exercise, and sufficient amounts of quality sleep are extremely important for our health but immune system support should also be a part of the regimen.

Source – CanadianPharmacyNORX.

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