Herbs to boost the immune system

We’re heading into sniffle, cough and flu season.  And while I wouldn’t ever directly advise anyone against getting a flu shot (I can get in big trouble for doing that), I am happy to share a list of five effective herbs for boosting your immune system and helping your body fight off illness naturally.

• Astragalus is an herb that has been used by the Chinese for hundreds of years (known traditionally as Huang-qi) to strengthen the body and protect it against illness.
• Echinacea aids and increases the body’s defenses and immune system against viruses and bacteria.
• Garlic is extremely powerful as an immune booster and also as an antibacterial agent.
• St. Johns Wort, though known to most as an antidepressant, has strong antiviral and antibacterial properties and is able to help the body heal and recover more quickly.
• Usnea is an extremely strong antibacterial agent that some claim works better than penicillin for certain patients and illnesses.

All of these can be found in capsule or often in tincture form and should only be taken as directed.

Remember to eat strengthening foods, to stay warm, to wash your hands, and to get plenty of rest.

Here’s to us all being well!

See on Fresh & Fit with Sara Snow on FitnessMagazine.com