6 Herbs That Help Boost Your Immune System

I absolutely love fall. But one of it’s unpleasant side effects is cold & flu season.

Since 70% of your immune system is in your gut, eating great food increases the likelihood of you staying healthy. And along with healthy food, these spices and herbs will help you stay well during cold & flu season too.

Echinacea

Echinacea flower

Echinacea is one of the most widely known herbal remedies. It promotes a healthy upper respiratory system and has many antioxidants that boost your immune system and can help you beat a cold. You can take echinacea in a capsule or liquid form. One of my favorite ways to consume it is as a tea. I really love this one!

Turmeric

Turmeric

This golden spice has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for years for everything from healing wounds to reducing inflammation and releasing mucus. Along with helping fight off cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, turmeric is known for stimulating the body’s immune system to fight off disease and illness. Take turmeric in capsule form or sprinkle the spice in tea, coffee or your food daily.

Elderberry

Elderberry

Elderberry has become popular recently (and for good reason!). The berries (and any purple/blue vegetable and fruit) contain compounds called anthocyanidins which help support a health immune system. Elderberry can even shorten the duration of a cold or the flu. Elderberry can be consumed as a tea, a syrup or a supplement. This brand has great elderberry syrups and supplements.

Astragalas

Astragalas flowers

Astragalas has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a slew of illnesses such as fatigue, allergies, diabetes, heart disease and the common cold. The herb has many health benefits including boosting immunity, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging. Unfortunately, it is lesser known in the western world but now you know how amazing it is! Astragalas can be found in various different forms including supplements, liquid extracts, capsules, powders and teas.

Oregano Oil

Oregano

We all know oregano as an herb used frequently in Italian cuisine. But did you know that oregano can be concentrated into an essential oil loaded with antioxidants and a ton of other health benefits? Yup! Oregano oil is a natural antibiotic and anti-fungal which means it’s an effective immune boosters. You can find oregano oil in liquid or capsule form. This is the brand I use!

Thyme

Thyme

Did you know that thyme was a member of the mint family? It also has a ton of medicinal properties like alleviating respiratory infections. Thyme is packed with vitamin C and a great source of vitamin A as well. It also helps relieve cough and a sore throat. Next time you have one try drinking some thyme tea!

Herbs provide many medicinal benefits that we should absolutely take advantage of. Instead of heading to the drug store, make a trip to the farmer’s market!