1. EchinaceaEchinacea is the prime herb associated with immunity since studies reveal that it has the capability to shorten the duration of the common cold and reduce symptoms such as sore throat, cough, and fever. In one review study on the efficacy of echinacea for COVID-19, the authors wrote:
"Current evidence suggests that Echinacea supplementation may decrease the duration and severity of acute respiratory tract infections; however, no studies using Echinacea in the prevention or treatment of conditions similar to COVID-19 have been identified." The study added that: "Because Echinacea can increase immune function, there is a concern that it could worsen over-activation of the immune system in cytokine storm; however, clinical trials show that Echinacea decreases levels of immune molecules involved in the cytokine storm.
You can find echinacea in organic powder. Take half a teaspoon in warm water or in tea.
2. Rhodiola Rosea (Golden Root)
In ancient China, the emperors dispatched explorers to Siberia in search of "the golden root," or Rhodiola Rosea, which the Chinese people used to treat flu and cold. Historically, farmers hid their Rhodiola crops, because it was so valuable for boosting health and libido.
Modern medical literature confirms that Rhodiola "exerts excellent immune-regulating effects and attenuates inflammatory damage," according to a review study in Science Direct. The root appears to fight off "various diseases through regulating immune cell differentiation, activation of inflammatory signaling pathways and secretion of inflammatory factors. "
As a general rule when buying your herbs, powders are more potent than tinctures, and search for organic since those crops are 30 percent more potent than not organic certified crops. Take half a teaspoon of Rhodiola Rosea or Golden Root once or twice a day in hot water or tea for immunity. It has a sweet and slightly bitter taste You can find organic Roseola on amazon.
3. Elderberry SyrupElderberry has a long history across the world of being used to help fight off colds, influenza, and respiratory tract infections. Since COVID took hold, researchers have been looking at whether Elderberry could help alleviate the worst symptoms of COVID-19, and evidence shows it could help someone get over their symptoms faster. Elderberry "may not reduce the risk of developing the common cold; it may reduce the duration and severity of colds."
The researchers concluded: "Elderberry may be a safe option for treating viral respiratory illness, and there is no evidence that it overstimulates the immune system." If you get an infection and take elderberry syrup, research indicatesit won't have negative side effects.
4. Angelica Sinensis (Female Ginseng)
Called dong quai in Chinese herbal medicine, this herb from the carrot family has traditionally been used to help women lessen symptoms of premenstrual cramps, and symptoms related to perimenopause and menopause.
Angelica Sinensis has been shown in studies to help bolster the immune system, by activating macrophages and natural killer cells. One of the most astounding studies about Angelica Sinensis is that it appears to help your spleen create more infection-fighting cells.
The spleen fights invading germs in the blood and contains white blood cells that fight infection while removing old or damaged red blood cells that are no longer needed. In the study, researchers found that subjects given Angelica Sinensis saw a "proliferation of total spleen cells, macrophages, and T cells were promoted by the action of AP." It's most potent in its powder form.
