Is it possible to improve the immune system? This can seem like an impossible feat, especially if you regularly get sick. The immune system does an excellent job at fighting off harmful bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms, but it fails on occasion. While there isn’t a magic supplement that makes sickness go away, there are things you can do and foods you can eat to help optimize immune function.

What Is The Immune System?

The immune system is a protective network of organs, proteins, and white blood cells that help protect the body from foreign substances. Upon coming in contact with substances like viruses, bacteria, pathogens, or fungi, the immune system works to neutralize and remove them from the body. The immune system works nonstop to protect the body, even if you don’t notice it. You only notice when the immune system is compromised because you fall ill. If the immune system is under-active, you may be at a higher risk for developing severe infections and tumors of immunodeficiency. An overactive immune system can result in allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases. 

We want to clarify that you cannot boost immune function overnight. The goal is to strengthen your immune system’s response with various lifestyle changes and through the use of immune-boosting foods, herbs, and supplements, which we detail below. 

Astragalus Root

Astragalus is in the bean and legume family and has a long history of use in herbal medicine. People have used it to help fight diseases and improve immune function. Astragalus root has been used as an adaptogen in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. A recent review found that astragalus-based treatment significantly improved toxicity induced by drugs, including cancer therapies and immunosuppressants. The extract of the root may also protect the body from gastrointestinal inflammation. 

Ginger

Before recorded history, Ayurveda practitioners relied heavily on ginger’s immune boosting abilities. The belief is that ginger breaks down accumulated toxins in the body’s organs because it has a warming effect. Ginger root exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties that help the immune system fend off bacteria and viruses. It may even treat inflammatory disorders caused by infectious agents like viruses, pathogens, and bacteria.

Elderberries

Both the berries and flowers of the elderberry plant have been used for thousands of years in herbal remedies. Even Hippocrates, the “Father of Medicine,” understood that elderberry was necessary for optimal immune function. He used elderberry because it helped fight off colds, flu symptoms, allergies, and inflammation. Elderberries are naturally rich in vitamin C, flavonols, and anthocyanins, all of which exhibit antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. One study found that elderberry extract was able to reduce the duration of the flu in people who consumed it within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Turmeric

This bright, yellowish orange spice is a key ingredient in many cuisines around the world. It also has a place in alternative remedies, exhibiting powerful anti-inflammatory and potential anti-cancer properties. Consuming turmeric may help reduce chronic inflammation, which increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Recent studies found that turmeric boosts immune activity in human cells. Consume turmeric with a little black pepper because the piperine in black pepper increases the bioavailability of turmeric. 

Probiotics

The gut can influence immune function, so optimizing gut health can benefit the immune system. Probiotics are healthy bacteria that help the body digest nutrients that encourage the detoxification of the colon. Research indicates that probiotic organisms may induce different cytokine responses in the body. Supplementing with probiotics in infancy may help prevent immune-related diseases in childhood because probiotics improve gut mucosal immune system. 

Zinc

This mineral exists in a variety of different foods (learn more about them here), but you can also consume it in the form of a supplement. Zinc encourages the body to produce more immune cells and may help reduce the severity and duration of infections. In fact, short-term use of zinc supplements has been shown to reduce the duration of viral colds in adults. Researchers identified that mild zinc deficiency may lower immune activity, but taking too much zinc can also weaken immune function. For that reason, consult with your doctor if you choose to take a zinc supplement. 

Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of autoimmune disorders and susceptibility to infection. Research indicates that vitamin D works to promote protective immunity and maintain immune tolerance. One study that involved 19,000 participants showed that people with lower vitamin D levels were more likely to report upper respiratory tract infection than people with sufficient levels. The body can produce vitamin D via UVB spectrum sunlight absorption, but you can also find it in  a minimal amount of food sources and supplements. 

Green Tea

Several studies evaluated the green tea’s antioxidant profile and whether or not it has immunomodulatory properties. Green tea works as an antifungal and antiviral agent, so it may be beneficial for immunocompromised patients. Green tea also contains Epigallocatechin (EGCG), which is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Not only does this catechin work to enhance immune function, but it may also regulate blood sugar and encourage weight loss.

SHARE:

The post 8 Foods And Supplements That Boost The Immune System appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Herbal extract containing antioxidant vitamins and minerals that work to boost the immune system and lower cholesterol.

SHARE:

The post Dherbs Elderberry Extract appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

The winter months provide the perfect storm of viral traps. A cough, head cold, or the dreaded coronavirus is waiting around every corner. The best way to make it through the cold without catching a cold is by keeping your immune system strong. COVID-19 safety measures make everyone more cautious about their healthy and safety, which helps keep them safe from other viruses. Sometimes, though, you just need to boost your health, herbal style. 

Alternative healing modalities have kept people healthy for thousands of years. Various herbs contain immune-boosting properties that give the body a helping hand when it encounters pathogens. The herbs in this article are essentially immunostimulants, also known as immune stimulants, which help the body resist illness after exposure to a pathogen. They enhance the body’s antimicrobial efforts to activate white blood cell activity. Keep reading which immune stimulants can help you fight pathogens and the common cold. 

Japanese Honeysuckle

Commonly made into tinctures, syrups, poultices, and compresses, Japanese honeysuckle is one of the most widely used medicinal herbs in the world. Its popularity among Western herbalists is relatively new, but Chinese herbalists have been using it for many years. Historically, herbalists used it to treat influenza and related symptoms like sore throat or stuffy nose. According to a 2015 study, scientists concluded that Japanese honeysuckle may contain a natural product that helps suppress viral infection. 

Elderberry

Recently, elderberry is the talk of the town, and you’ve likely heard about it. It contains powerful antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal properties, giving your immune system a helping hand. Some studies have even found that it effectively treats the cold and flu. You can find it in the form of tea, extracts, tinctures, or supplements. There’s no need to chug a whole bottle of elderberry extract, though; a teaspoon at a time will do you good. 

Japanese Catnip

No, this is not the stuff you give to your cat. Japanese catnip is primarily found in mainland China and it contains numerous beneficial compounds, including menthol, schizonodiol, and cineole. Menthol is the primary compound in the mint plant, so this herb has similar health properties to mint. Tradition Chinese Medicine (TCM) used this herb to help reduce chills, treat common cold symptoms, stop bleeding, reduce fevers, and soothe headaches. Recent studies found that the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in Japanese catnip may reduce common cold symptoms. 

Echinacea

When it comes to immune function, the one herb you should know about is echinacea. This readily available herb comes in the form of supplements, tinctures, teas, or extracts. It is an immune-stimulating herb that is safe and effective against the common cold. A 2015 meta-analysis found that echinacea is beneficial for people with low immune function, and that it can reduce cold symptoms by 35 percent. Echinacea is most effective if you use it when you experience the first sign of a cold symptom. 

Andographis

Often referred to as green chiretta, andographis is a flowering herb that has historical use in Ayurveda and TCM. These forms of herbal medicine consider it to be an ancient healing herb that has a cooling and cleansing effect on the body. Two plant studies found that adographis contains antiviral and antibacterial properties, both of which are necessary to fight off common cold symptoms. One study found that andographis extract may increase a person’s white blood cell count to boost immune function. Another study found that it may help relieve upper respiratory tract infections and cold symptoms like runny nose or sore throat. 

Prickly Ash

You may be less familiar with this herb, despite the fact that it is an excellent immune stimulant. Prickly ash was commonly used by the Native Americans to help boost lymphatic drainage and increase circulation. The branches and trunk of the plant have serious thorns, but the internal bark and leaves have myriad medicinal properties. Be warned that this herb has a strong taste, and it can even make your tongue feel tingly. It’s best to take this in small doses to encourage lymphatic drainage and stimulate circulation.

Balloon Flower

This flower pops if it contains too much air. Not really, but they bloom in late summer and have attractive, striking purple flowers. Used in TCM, balloon flower helps to boost immune function, strengthen lung power, rid the body of phlegm, and reduce the duration of cold symptoms. Experts attribute these abilities to the powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The active compounds help to open the airways and maintain healthy mucus levels. This can be great if you are combating cold symptoms like coughing, congestion, or shortness of breath. 

SHARE:

The post Blow The Common Cold Away With These 7 Herbs appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Just like another series of a show that nobody wants to watch, the flu season is back. That means that you can expect a high percentage of people to experience fever, chills, coughing, sinus pressure, runny nose, and more in the coming months. If you do come down with the flu, there are many natural remedies that are safe and effective for reducing the severity of symptoms. 

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, flu season is a little scarier this year. Both COVID-19 and the flu share a couple symptoms, and they are both respiratory infections caused by viruses. One of the primary benefits of working from home, schooling at home, and wearing facial coverings everywhere is a dramatic reduction in community transmission. Too often does the flu virus pass between coworkers in offices and kids in schools. Infected people bring the virus into their homes and infect others. Stay-at-home orders, however, don’t make people immune or safe from the flu virus. 

As always, prevention is essential for optimal health. Try your best to stay hydrated and eat a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in nutrient-dense foods. You can supplement with vitamin C and other immune-supporting vitamins and minerals. If you do come down with the flu, take extreme caution and use the following natural remedies to improve symptoms and reduce the length of illness. 

Sleep Your Symptoms Away

One of the best things you can do when you’re sick is to rest or sleep as much as possible. This helps you isolate from others and it boosts immune function to fight the virus. Sleep as much as you can in the first 24-48 hours after experiencing initial symptoms. You can place another pillow under your head to help drain your nasal passages. This also makes sleeping a lot easier. 

Take Elderberry

Many studies found that the bioflavonoids, essential oils, and tannins in elderberry exhibit antiviral activity against influenza. It is not a cure by any means, but it may help reduce the severity of symptoms and the length of the flu. The reason it is effective against the flu is because it stops hemagglutinin, a protein that the influenza virus needs to replicate. In order for elderberry to be effective, start consuming it within 48 hours of the initial symptoms. You can make an immune boosting elderberry syrup by clicking here. 

Increase Your Zinc Intake

Zinc is one of the best minerals for optimizing immune health because it helps the body produce white blood cells. According to several research studies, zinc may help to reduce the severity of both cold and flu symptoms. Health experts believe that zinc does this by slowing down the rate at which the virus multiplies in the body. Slower multiplication of the virus gives your body a better chance at fighting it off. You can take zinc supplements, but you can also get a lot of zinc from oats, pumpkin seeds, ginger, raw cacao, wheat germ, chickpeas, lentils, and nuts. 

Drink A Lot Of Water

If you develop a fever, one of the most important things you can do is to drink a lot of water. High fever puts you at risk of becoming dehydrated, which can extend your symptoms and delay recovery time. Additionally, the immune system cannot function optimally if the body is dehydrated. Water helps to moisten the throat, nose, and mouth, assisting the body with getting rid of excess mucus. You can keep the body hydrated by drinking water, freshly made juice, herbal tea, fresh coconut water, and eating raw fruits and vegetables. 

Take Steamy Showers

You shouldn’t waste water, but long steamy showers are extremely beneficial and necessary when you have the flu. The steam helps to moisturize the throat and nose, making it easier for you to clear them of mucus. If you want to enhance the sinus-cleansing benefits, you can make some peppermint shower bombs. The peppermint scent and steam help to improve breathing and provide relief from sinus congestion.

SHARE:

The post 5 Natural Remedies To Help You Fight The Flu appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

The elder plant (Sambucus) has flooded the world of natural remedies. The berries often outshine the rest of the elder plant, even though the flowers have amazing medicinal benefits. You won’t see them in an immune-boosting tonic, but those sweet smelling blossoms are commonly infused in oil blends or skin creams, salves, or lotions.

What Are Elderflowers?

The most common species of elder plants include the Sambucus nigra, black elder or European elder, the Sambucus Mexicana, Mexican elder, and the Sambucus australasica, yellow elder. The white or cream-colored flowers have a sweet aroma and are rich in a variety of nutrients, including antiviral agents, quercetin, and vitamin C.

Skin Smoothing Effect

The astringent properties of elderflowers help encourage a smoother, even skin complexion. Astringent properties help to reduce the size and appearance of pores because they tighten the skin. This contributes to healthier looking skin that is smooth and refreshed.

Nutrient-Dense

Elderflowers contain bioflavonoids, which are important for skin care because they contain anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. Isoquercitrin, anthocyanin, and quercetin are the most abundant flavonols in elderflowers. They also contain other antiviral agents that help reduce allergy symptoms and regulate blood glucose levels.

Anti-Aging Benefits

This is why you clicked on this article, right? The antioxidants and flavonoids in elderflowers help to combat early sings of aging, including wrinkles. Elderflowers are rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E, all of which promote firmer skin and even skin tone. The other antioxidants help protect against sun damage and fight oxidative stress, which contributes to early signs of aging.

Improve Hair Health

Both the berries and flowers of the elder plant are excellent for your hair. If you have damaged hair or want to enhance your natural hair color, look no further than shampoos and conditioners that are infused with elderflowers. Elderflower extracts also give your hair extra shine.

Anti-Aging Edlerflower Salve

Ingredients:

• 15 blossoms dried or fresh elderflowers
• 15.2 fluid ounces sweet almond oil
• 2 tablespoons beeswax
• 15 drops frankincense essential oil

Instructions:

• First you need to make elderflower infused oil. To do that, combine the elderflowers and sweet almond oil in a glass jar.
• Place the jar in a warm place for two weeks; a windowsill that is exposed to direct sunlight is an excellent place. Strain the oil into another jar after two weeks, discarding the flowers.
• Measure out ½ cup of elderflower infused oil and pour it into the top of a double boiler. Add the beeswax as well and heat until the mixture is thoroughly mixed and melted.
• Remove the double boiler from heat and let the melted mixture cool for about 10 minutes. Stir in the frankincense essential oil and then pour the mixture into a glass container.
• Let the mixture harden (about 2 hours) and then use at your leisure.

SHARE:

The post Anti-Aging Elderflower Salve To Improve Skin Elasticity appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

For thousands of years, various cultures and civilizations around the world have used herbs to treat illnesses, diseases, and viral infections. With the advent of globalization and ease of travel, viral infections play an important role in human diseases, including recent outbreaks. Even though scientists and researchers have made great strides with immunization and treatment options, people turn to the potent plant compounds in antiviral herbs as alternative remedies.

The Role Of Viruses Today

Viruses cause myriad conditions, including certain cancers and hard-to-cure illnesses like hepatocellular carcinoma, Alzheimer’s disease, and type 1 diabetes. More recent examples include the emergence of dengue fever, measles, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), West Nile virus outbreaks, and the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. To date, there are viruses that do not have effective immunizations, and few antiviral treatments help. The discovery of potent antiviral compounds in various herbs is an urgent need because therapies that control viruses are lacking.

The Role Of Herbal Medicine Today

From purified natural products to antiviral herbs, herbal medicine plays a large role in virus protection nowadays. Scientists are hard at work to find and test how natural agents target viruses, how they affect viral life cycles, and if they are effective against notable pathogens. Research has shown that certain antiviral herbs are beneficial for the herpes simplex virus, the dengue virus, the influenza virus, the measles virus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Let’s take a look at some of three powerful antiviral herbs below.

Siberian Ginseng

Historically used in Eastern countries like Japan, Korea, China, and Russia, Siberian ginseng, also known as eleuthero ginseng, is one of the most widely used antiviral herbs in the world. While it is in the same botanical family as Asian and American ginseng species, Siberian ginseng is a different plant with different chemical components. Scientists attribute the antiviral properties of Siberian ginseng to eleutherosides, which are a complex group of chemicals.

The root contains the richest concentration of eleutherosides, which stimulate the production of interferon, a protein that enhances antibody activity and inhibits virus replication. Traditional Chinese Medicine uses Siberian ginseng to treat respiratory conditions, colds, flus, and to improve energy and vitality. In many studies, Siberian ginseng helped boost immune response and activate the body’s resistance to infection.

Astragalus

Astragalus is native to the mountains and grasslands of Asia, specifically Taiwan, Korea, and China. Used in essential tonics for over two thousand years, astragalus is one of the fifty fundamental herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Many studies found that the antiviral properties in astragalus stimulate the immune system to help prevent viral infections.

Research in the United States found that astragalus may be a possible treatment for people with compromised or weakened immune systems. It is an adaptogen herb, meaning it enhances immune response and increases resistance to chemical, biological, and physical stressors. Finally, astragalus is often used to strengthen the immune systems of people with upper respiratory infections, flus, fibromyalgia, allergies, anemia, and AIDS.

Elderberry

Elderberry is one of the most popular antiviral herbs in existence. According to Aviva Romm, M.D., an integrative medicine doctor, elderberry is absolutely necessary for fighting off colds and flus. The Journal of Functional Food examined in vitro studies of the influenza virus, and how elderberry extract interacted with the virus. The results indicated that elderberry extract worked to inhibit the virus in the early stages of the cycle.

It is very easy to supplement with elderberry because it comes in the form of extracts, tinctures, supplements, or powders. One study in mice determined that elderberry extract suppressed the influenza virus from replicating by stimulating immune response. In a review of four studies with 180 people, elderberry supplements substantially reduced upper respiratory symptoms caused by viral infections.

SHARE:

The post 3 Powerful Antiviral Herbs That Boost Immune Health appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Elderberry is one of the most common natural remedies for the common cold or flu. People consume elderberry in the form of tinctures, extracts, teas, syrups, or supplements. Elderberry wasn’t always used to boost the immune system, though. Native Americans used elderberry to treat infections and Ancient Egyptians used it to remedy burns and improve complexion. To this day, Europeans gather elderberry to use it in traditional folk medicine.

What Is Elderberry?

The European elder (Sambucus nigra) is the most commonly used species, especially for tinctures or supplements. This species of elderberry is native to Europe, but it grows in many parts of the world. The plant has cream-colored flowers and produces small black/blue berry bunches. In order to consume the berries, they must be cooked, but the flowers can be eaten in their raw form. Historically, various cultures used the flowers for pain relief and inflammation, while the bark was used as a diuretic. The dried or cooked berries proved to be effective at treating influenza, swelling, headaches, and nerve pain.

Elderberry’s Health Benefits

Scientists attribute elderberry’s health benefits to anthocyanin, which is a potent antioxidant that helps to reduce oxidative stress in the body. Additionally anthocyanin has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent common infections and pain. Read about elderberry’s top five benefits below.

May Benefit Heart Health

Preliminary studies found that elderberry extract may help reduce bad cholesterol and fat levels in the blood. Due to the high antioxidant content of elderberry, scientists believe that it can reduce the risk of heart disease when combined with a balanced diet. One study with 34 people, who took 400 milligrams of elderberry extract three times daily for two weeks, found no reduction in blood cholesterol levels. Another study in mice, however, found that including elderberry extract in their diets reduced cholesterol in the liver and aorta, but not the blood.

Reduces Uric Acid In The Blood

High uric acid levels are commonly associated with gout and joint inflammation. When uric acid crystals form in the joints, it can be quite painful and cause joints to become stiff. Additionally, high uric acid levels can increase blood pressure and negatively affect heart health. Due to the anti-inflammatory properties, elderberry extract may reduce levels of uric acid in the blood.

Provides Pain Relief

As mentioned earlier in this article, anthocyanin reduces inflammation in the body. The anthocyanin in elderberry helps to inhibit nitric oxide production in the body’s immune cells. Nitric oxide is a molecule that signals inflammation response for injuries or diseases. The anthocyanin tempers this response to alleviate swelling or pain. Since there have only been a few studies examining these benefits, more studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of these initial findings.

Relieves Constipation

To encourage a bowel movement using elderberry, it is best to drink tea made from dried elderberries. Consuming this tea has been proven to have a laxative effect, which is attributed to anthraquinone, an organic compound that inhibits the absorption of water in the intestines. As a result, intestinal pressure increases and stimulates peristalsis to encourage bowel movements. It is safe to use elderberry tea as a laxative for up to five days.

Say Goodbye To Colds & Flus

The ability to reduce the severity of cold and flu infections is what elderberry is known for. According to various studies, elderberry syrup helps to reduce the duration and severity of infection if taken within the first 48 hours of the exhibiting the first symptoms. A 2019 study found that elderberry substantially improved upper airway symptoms for people with common colds. Another study monitored 60 people with influenza. They all took 15 milliliters of elderberry syrup four times daily and showed improvement within two to four days. The other group who took a placebo took seven or eight days for symptoms to improve.

SHARE:

The post The 5 Benefits Of Elderberry You Must Know About appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Winter has become synonymous with colds and flus, and viruses are passed around quicker than gossip at TMZ. While some people still revert to over-the-counter cold & flu medications to manage symptoms, others have realized the effectiveness of natural remedies, such as elderberry extracts or syrups.

There is obviously a time and place for conventional medicine, but regular medicine won’t do much for a mild cold or flu. Colds are miserable and all you want to do is fix them as soon as possible. This is why many people turn to elderberries, which have been known to boost immune function and fight upper respiratory infections. Of the many lozenges, gummies, pills, teas, and extracts that contain elderberry, which ones have excess sugar or added chemicals? It can be hard to determine this, which is why we encourage you to make your own.

Studies On Elderberry

• One randomized study with 60 adults, who had flu-like symptoms, gave half of the patients placebo syrup and the other half 15 ml of elderberry syrup four times a day. The group that took elderberry syrup found that symptoms cleared up four days earlier than the people who took the placebo syrup.
• A 2010 study looked at the effects of elderberry extract on immunoresponse in genes. The findings indicated that elderberry extract has antiviral properties that activate the immune system by increasing cytokine production. This means that elderberry extract may be beneficial for activating inflammatory responses in people with various illnesses.
• Madeleine Mumcuoglu of Hadassah-Hebrew University in Israel found that elderberry works to neutralize viruses that penetrate healthy cells in the nose and throat. Sometimes, the virus infects the body before prevention. In this case, elderberry extract helps prevent the virus from spreading throughout the respiratory system.

Benefits of Elderberry

Rich in vitamins A, B, and C, elderberries have the natural ability to boost immune function. The complex sugars in elderberries work to fight colds and flus by supporting the immune system. While the elderberries help to support immune function, you can support their efforts to accelerate recovery by eating foods that are rich in vitamins C, B6, and E. Try and eat plant-based foods as much as possible to absorb the most nutrients.

DIY Elderberry Syrup

Ingredients:

• 4 slices ginger root
• ½ lemon
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 6 cloves
• 1 cup dried elderberries
• 4 cups filtered water
• 1 cup organic raw honey

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to the Instant Pot, place the lid on, and set the vent to the “Sealing” position.
• Cook on “Manual” for 10 minutes and then do a quick pressure release. Remove the lid and set your Instant Pot to “Saute” in order to boil the syrup.
• Boil the syrup for 10 minutes until half reduces the liquid. Turn off the Instant Pot and pour the syrup through a mesh strainer into a bowl, mashing the berries to release all the liquid.
• Through the berries away after you mash them because they are not safe to eat. Store in a dropper bottle and take a dropper full when you are under the weather.

SHARE:

The post Instant Pot Elderberry Syrup To Boost Immunity appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Viruses exist everywhere, and they can cause health conditions like hepatitis, mononucleosis, HIV, the flu, and even the common cold. While many people commonly opt to get an annual flu shot (influenza vaccination), studies have shown that it is only 80% effective, due to the fact that this virus has mutating strains. Additionally, vaccines don’t properly educate your immune system and they can contain preservatives and chemicals. Wouldn’t it be better if you could use all natural herbs to fight off viruses without harming the body?

Facts About Viruses

A virus is a microscopic organism that can exist almost anywhere on the planet. Viruses can spread through sneezing, coughing, person-to-person contact, sexual contact, or by entering the body through food or water. More often than not, viruses infect plants, fungi, animals, humans, and bacteria. Some viruses are fatal, while others can make you feel ill for only a day or so. Consisting of genetic material, viruses cannot replicate without a host, which classifies them as parasites. Viruses are the most abundant biological entities on the planet.

So What Do Antiviral Herbs Do?

When you consume foods that keep your immune system strong, you have a better chance of fighting off viruses. Antiviral herbs can help to inhibit the development of viruses because they boost the immune system, which helps the body attack viral pathogens. Antiviral herbs also contain anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, and healthy digestive properties.

#1: Echinacea

Echinacea is an amazing herb that is loaded with antimicrobial properties, which are great for the immune system. All varieties of the echinacea herb have phenol compounds. At a base level, phenols protect plants from UV radiation damage and infections. The active substances in phenols control enzymes and cell receptors, and their active antioxidants make them great for keeping human cells healthy.

#2: Astragalus Root

Astragalus root has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for hundreds of years, primarily for enhancing immune function. Several studies have shown that astragalus’ antiviral properties help to stimulate the immune system and inhibit the development of the common cold or flu.

#3: Ginger

If you keep up with our web content, you know that we love ginger. One of our favorite things about ginger is that it helps to cleanse the lymphatic system, also known as the body’s sewage system. It also helps to flush toxins from your organs. Did we mention that ginger prevents the body from accumulating toxins that can make you sick or susceptible to bacterial infections? Well, it does that too!

#4: Oil of Oregano

While fresh oregano is tasty, the health benefits come alive when it is distilled to extract the essential oil. Oil of oregano contains carvacrol and thymol, both of which have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Carvacrol is responsible for reversing viral infections, allergies, parasites, and reducing inflammation.

#5: Cat’s Claw

This herb has a lot of bark, not meow! Okay…that was terrible. People in South America have actually used the bark of cat’s claw as a natural remedy for fevers and digestive conditions, like dysentery, for centuries. Cat’s claw has powerful antiviral properties that can be used to help reduce one’s viral load, and early studies show that it may be beneficial for HIV patients, but more research needs to be conducted.

#6: Elderberry

Elderberry has been popularly used in many cultures for its ability to help fight viral infections, herpes, influenza, and bacterial infections. Almost all of the elderberry plant is usable. You can use the bark, leaves, roots, and flowers, which can be beneficial to brew into a tea when you have the flu. Make an elderberry syrup to boost immune function by clicking here.

#7: Olive Leaf

The antiviral properties of olive leaf have been known to fight back against the common cold and more serious viruses like meningitis, pneumonia, hepatitis B, malaria, gonorrhea, and candida symptoms. Recent research has shown that the extract of olive leaf can fight against viruses that cause influenza or respiratory infections. Olive leaf extract’s compounds can also kill invading organisms, making it so viruses cannot replicate to spread infection.

SHARE:

The post 7 Antiviral Herbs That Enhance Your Immune System appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

In case you haven’t noticed, people are dying from the flu at the moment. Whether it is flu season or not, you need to take action so that you can avoid getting sick. One of the best ways to do this is to make sure that your immune system is functioning optimally. A weakened immune system, or an immune system that doesn’t function the way it should, can make you more prone to viruses, skin problems or stomach pain, and even frequent heartburn.

We want to help keep you healthy, safe, and virus-free, which is why we have put together a few natural remedies that can have a positive impact on your immune system. Some of these things may be different from what you are used to, but they are better than getting sick or taking whatever medications you see in commercials.

The Master Tonic

This has some incredible healing properties that can help improve circulation, purify your blood, and remedy your lymphatic system. We have to warn you, though, that it is a very potent herbal remedy. Here are a couple things to know before consuming this natural antibiotic. 

1. Wear rubber gloves and a paper mask when making this Master Tonic because the peppers are quite intense.
2. If the flavor of this liquid is too potent, try eating an orange, lemon, or lime slice to help out your taste buds and cool your mouth.

Ingredients for the Master Tonic

• 1 liter organic apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup garlic, finely diced
• ¼ cup onion, finely diced
• 2 fresh peppers, hottest you can find
• 2 Tbsp. grated horseradish
• 2 Tbsp. turmeric powder
• 5 liter glass mason jar

Instructions

• Combine all of the ingredients, excluding the vinegar, in a large mixing bowl. Mix it up and then pour the mixture into a mason jar.
• Pour the apple cider vinegar into the mason jar, seal the jar, and shake it up. Store this in a cool, dry place (like a cupboard) for 2 weeks, shaking it up a couple times a day, everyday.
• After two weeks, strain the juice from the jar into another vessel that you can drink from. You can use the remaining mixture to cook with.

Elderberry Syrup To Boost Immunity

Elderberries are widely known for their ability to boost the immune system and help the body fight off bacteria or viruses. In fact, elderberry is commonly used in the flu vaccine. In addition to providing allergy relief, elderberries can also be used to help lower blood pressure, aid digestion, and even slow cancer cell growth.

Word to the Wise: Few species of elderberry are actually edible, which is why it is important to get elderberries from a credible, licensed store. Don’t go into the woods and pluck whatever resembles an elderberry because it could be deathly poisonous.

What You Need To Make An Elderberry Tincture

• 2/3 cup dried elderberries
• 5 cups filtered water
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger root
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• ½ teaspoon clove powder
• 1 cup organic raw honey 

Instructions

• Combine everything except for the honey in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Once it is boiling, reduce heat to a low simmer for 45 minutes so that the liquid reduces by about half.
• Remove from the heat and carefully mash the berries in the pan. Strain through a mesh strainer into a glass jar.
• Once it is lukewarm, stir in the honey. You can store this airtight glass jar in the fridge and take it daily.
• Children can take ½ teaspoon or 1 teaspoon of the syrup and adults can take ½ tablespoon or 1 tablespoon once a day. If you get hit with the flu, take these respective measurements every 3 hours.

Supercharge Your Immune System With This Drink

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• ¼ cup raw apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup organic raw honey
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 4 cups filtered water

Instructions

• Put the filtered water in a saucepan over medium heat and warm until it is steaming. Remove from the heat and stir in the honey until dissolved.
• Add the turmeric, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper and mix well. Let this cool before pouring into a large glass jar. Cover it and leave it in the fridge to cool overnight.
• Drink one cup of this after your morning glass of water.

Common Cold Killer Juice

Take a shot of this juice about three times a day when you feel a cold coming on. It can give your immune system the healthy boost that it needs to fight off viruses.

Ingredients

• 2 oranges, cubed
• 3 lemons, cubed
• 3-4 inch piece of ginger, peeled
• pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

• Process the orange pieces, lemon pieces, and ginger through the juicer. Stir in the cayenne pepper once the juice has been dispensed into a cup. If you need a little sweetness, add about one teaspoon of raw agave syrup.

SHARE:

The post Health Tips To Help You Avoid Getting Sick appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.