10 Top Herbs and Spices to Boost Immunity

Introduction

When it comes to body systems, we are often informed about the health aspects of the digestive system, nervous system, respiratory system, but the complex immunity system is often ignored. For some of us, the immune system has an intangible existence, and people take it for granted. But due to the recent global pandemic issue, people all over the world seem to care about their immune system. 

An immune system is a network of cellular organs, tissues which have a synchronizing connection with the responses to outside viruses and bacteria. It defends and protects your body from diseases, infections and seasonal conditions. 

Is it necessary to strengthen your immunity to fight diseases? 

Before we move towards the herbs and spices for strengthening your immunity, let us first understand the importance of immunity-boosting activities. Remember that the primary function of an immune system is to defend your body against the threats that external participants cause such as infections and flu. Since an immune system is a network, it communicates with the other organs, informs them about the concerned emergency, and warns about the threat. When your immune cells are activated, it allows other cells to fortify and be ready to fight the infection. 

When your body is devoid of such an immune system, it becomes vulnerable and is easily susceptible to the diseases. 

How to build and strengthen your immune system?

Now, as you are acquainted with the ‘why’ concept, let us understand how you can do the same. The body’s immune system does not work magically or on an auto-pilot mode. It works when it receives sufficient support from yourself. Though few people are blessed with a robust immune system, you cannot make any absurd assumptions about the same. People have to work by seeking the right nutrition, rest, fitness activity, less stress and adequate sun exposure. 

According to studies, if you avoid processed foods and skip unhealthy habits, then you can surely restore your immune system and maximize its potential. 

Herbs and Spices to strengthen your immunity 

Apart from fruits and vegetables, herbs and spices play an important role in strengthening your immunity. So, here is a complete overview of the same. 

No. #1: Garlic 

This spice has been used in several cuisines, particularly the Ayurvedic one. It has been proven in clinical studies that garlic is good for cardiovascular health, and is enriched with microbial properties. If you love to eat sauté dishes, then do not forget to add garlic to it. Garlic enriches the taste of any recipe, and you can find plenty of recipes on the internet. 

No. #2: Ginger 

Ginger might sound boring and pungent to taste, but it has excellent anti-inflammatory properties. It is also good for fighting cholesterol, blood clots, and cardiovascular conditions. If you have persistent cold and cough problems, then a hot cup of ginger tea on a daily basis will surely help. Similarly, you can add garlic-ginger paste to gravies and dishes and enrich your taste and fortify the immune system. 

No. #3: Ginseng 

Here comes another G. Ginseng has been used in Chinese as well as Indian medicine since years. This herb fights cancer and inflammation. As per clinical studies, ginseng has been proven to be of immense help to your immunity, diabetes and psychological functions. 

No. #4: Turmeric 

This herb is seeking attention from all over the world. Popular in Indian medicine, turmeric has fantastic benefits. It fights inflammation, and that’s the reason turmeric powder can be applied on wounds and injuries to heal quickly. It contains curcumin which is rich in antioxidants. It also soothes stomach ache and has excellent antibacterial properties. As turmeric also facilitates better digestion, you can consume it for a healthy gut. 

So, a turmeric tea or a latte is an excellent idea to end your day and relieve from the stress. Similarly, you can add turmeric powder along with other spices to your gravies and seek nutrition from it. Turmeric is available in powdered and solid form. We recommend buying the organic version for best results. 

No. #5: Astragalus 

Another Chinese herb, astragalus, is great for digestion, immune system, and helps in fighting common cold symptoms. The key is to consume in moderate quantities or the form of a supplement. Over-consumption can lead to serious issues. So, don’t stress out, instead get a supplement that has astragalus in it. It also reduces toxins from your body and maintains a healthy gut. 

No. #6: Angelica Root 

Studies have proven that angelica root stimulates the immune responses strongly and cures respiratory problems such as cold and cough. 

No. #7: Bell Peppers 

We are not talking about the green ones, but the colored ones which are devoid of capsaicin. Bell peppers are tasty and sweet and munchable. It lowers cancer-related risks. As it contains a compound known as beta-carotene, it can be transformed into Vitamin A, an essential vitamin for your immune system. A sauté of bell peppers or fried rice with these peppers can be a delicious and fortifying meal for your body. 

No. #8: Cat’s Claw 

No, it is not an animal-based herb, but a Peru-based herb that is good for curing stomach-related problems. It stimulates immune responses and combats infections and deadly diseases. Due to the special compounds known as oxindole alkaloids in it, it improves your immunity and fights with the pathogens entering your body systems. 

No. #9: Ginkgo Biloba 

Loaded with antioxidants, ginkgo biloba might sound like a weird name but has excellent immunity-boosting properties. It fights against free radicals and hence, it used in worldwide dietary supplements. It safeguards your body from radiation and prevents the destruction of healthy cells. It also reduces brain damage substantially. So, ginkgo biloba should be on your list to fortify your health and well-being. 

No. #10: Ganoderma 

Reishi mushroom is a familiar name to this food. It is a Chinese medicinal herb and boasts of rendering extended life and health to its consumers. Studies have shown that it can strengthen your immunity, fight cancer, and provide relief from certain infections. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, with these herbs and spices, you can not only strengthen your immunity but also add a unique taste to your food. It will be an enjoyable experience to have foods infused with these herbs and spices to boost immunity. We suggest backing it up with more healthy foods, exercise, hygiene and an effective supplement. 

References

1. Garlic – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4417560/
2. Ginger – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3665023/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92775/. 
3. Turmeric – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17569218, https://www.nature.com/articles/labinvest200890. 
4. Ginseng – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3659612/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23717137. 
5. Astragalus – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6438022/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15035888. 
6. Angelica Root – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3174116/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3576791/. 
7. Bell peppers – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5658767/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4665466/. 
8. Cat’s claw – https://nccih.nih.gov/health/catclaw, https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=19&contentid=CatsClaw. 
9. Gingko Biloba – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25016273.
10. Ganoderma – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92757/.