Herbs that Support a Healthy Immune System

Fall is a beautiful season with the changing color of the leaves and the harvesting of foods that have been growing during the spring and summer. However there is one downside. At this season of the year colds and flu are on the rise. People are looking for ways to find relief. Here are several herbs that are very helpful.

Echinacea - This is a popular herb that is native to the American prairies. The Native Americans used it and the settlers that came here used it. It grows wild and there are several different varieties. It can be used as a preventive measure as well as a remedy for colds and flu. It is available in capsules or as an extract.

Garlic - Garlic is a pungent herb that is nicknamed "the stinking rose". It has been used at one time or another for just about everything. Many studies have been on garlic and one of its properties is that it supports the immune system. It is another herb that can be used both as a preventive and as a remedy. It is antiviral and antibacterial. Garlic oil has been used for earaches, or rubbed on the sole of one's feet where it is absorbed into the body. Garlic can be eaten raw, or taken in capsule form.

Oregano - This herb is one of the strongest anti-oxidants around. It is famous in Italian cooking; especially on pizza. This herb is antibacterial and antiviral. It can come in capsules, or as an extract. Oregano oil is popular. I'll put a few drops of the oil into a glass of water and drink it.

Thyme - Thyme is another herb from the Mediterranean region that can be used for colds and flu. It is very popular in remedies for cough syrup. Thyme is known as an expectorant and it can be used in a steam bath to help relieve symptoms.

Goldenseal - This herb has been wild crafted to the point of almost extinction. There are now growers that grow it for the market, but people are cautioned not to pick it in the wild. Goldenseal is often combined with echinacea and the two are taken together. Goldenseal is great for strengthening the immune system.When you get goldenseal be sure that it has been grown and harvested ethically. It would be a shame to lose such an important herb.

 Be sure to ask your healthcare practitioner if any of these herbs are right for you. Some herbs and medications do not mix.

Sources
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20306929,00.html
http://www.rodalesorganiclife.com/wellbeing/5-essential-herbs-fight-flu
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/09/23/garlic-health-benefits.aspx

Be sure to check out my website at www.valerielull.com . I  have written two books, Ten Healthy Teas, and Ten Spices for Health and Longevity. They would make a great holiday gift for your friends.

Valerie Lull
Author
valerielull923@gmail.com
www.valerielull.com