If we didn’t have a crisis, we would all probably have toilet paper. So my question is, does toilet paper and purell keep you saife or is that just panic? I wanted to share with you 3 different lists that we believe are very helpful. One list comes from the CDC which gives steps you can take to stay protected!
List 1: Follow all CDC Guidelines
List 2: Follow all World Health Organizations Guidelines
List 3: Beware of Herbal scams that offer a Coronavirus cure (FDA)
There are some herbs and foods that do help to boost the immune system – they are listed below. It is important to note that there are no herbal cures for Corvid-19 – however strengthening your immune system may help you stay safe. More than herbs, there are active actions you can take to also lessen your your risks (and no – massive amounts of toilet paper is not included in that!)
- Reduce Stress – Chronic stress suppresses the immune response of the body by releasing the hormone cortisol. Cortisol interferes with the T-cells(a specific white blood cell) to reproduce and receive signals from the body. Cortisol also reduces the antibody secretory IgA, which lines the gut and respiratory tract, which are our first line of defense against pathogens. To keep your stress in check, practice yoga, meditation or deep breathing in your regular routine. Crystals that help reduce stress are Amethyst, Pink calcite, Mangano Calcite, Chevron Amethyst, Black Obsidian, Rose Quartz and Rhodonite.
- Moderate Alcohol Intake: Numerous researches have shown that excess intake of alcohol can tamper with the immune system and its pathway in a complicated manner. However, moderate consumption of alcohol can be helpful to the overall health of the body. Crystals to use when trying to quit alcohol an be Shungite, Black Obsidian, Amethyst, garnierite.
- The saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” can actually be true as consumption of vitamins can boost your immune system. Vitamin A, B6, C, D and E can help increase the strength of the immune system. Vitamin C is the biggest booster of all and lack of it can cause several diseases including Scurvy. You can get Vitamin C from citrus fruits like Orange, Grapefruit, Spinach and Strawberries. You can take multivitamin supplements from your doctor, multivitamins work but actual foods work better!Vegetables, fruits, seeds and nuts are loaded with nutrients that are essential for our immune system. Consuming them on a daily basis boosts the immunity. For a healthy liver, cruciferous vegetables like Kale, Broccoli and Cabbage should be included in daily diet. Healthy liver ensures the body’s’ natural detoxification process. Crystals to use when trying to boost your body health can be Red Jasper, Carnelian, Garnet, Citrine, Bloodstone & Brecciated Jasper
- Lack of sleep can cause the inflammatory immune response to activate, reducing the activity of T cells in the body. This can weaken your immune system and response to vaccines. Try to sleep for 7–8 hours and avoid having an all-nighter. If you happen to be travelling in different time zones on a regular basis, consume 2–3mg of Melatonin to reset the circadian rhythm. Crystals to use when trying to improve sleep are Banded Agate, Blue Lace Agate, Mahogany Obsidian, Clear Quartz, Citrine, Blue Apatite
- Stop smoking because not only does it increases the risk of cancer but it also impairs the immune system. Smoking is said to have a negative impact on both adaptive and innate immunity. It can also increase the chances of developing harmful pathogenic immune responses and smoking also reduces the effectiveness of your immune system’s defenses. However, if you still wish to continue, there are alternatives like the use of nicotine patches or electronic cigarettes which help to quit smoking and less harmful. Crystals to use when you are trying to quit smoking are Carnelian, Desert Jasper, Blue Apatite, Garnet, Red Jasper, Hematite & Citrine.
- Stepping out in the natural light is one of the major contributors to the production of Vitamin D in our body. Vitamin D is essential for healthy functioning of the immune system as it helps the body to produce antibodies. Low level of Vitamin D in the body has been termed as one of the major reasons for respiratory problems. A brisk walk in the sunlight for 10–15 minutes will ensure that enough Vitamin D is produced in the body. Crystals to use that aid in comforting the body during exercise are Carnelian, Amazonite, Green Aventurine, Smoky Quartz, Garnet and Brecciated Jasper.
Some herbs can also boost the immune system. Please keep in mind that these herbs will not CURE a viral infection, but they can aid in keeping your body strong and your immune system healthy so that it can do what it does best – fight off anything that brings disease!
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- Turmeric: You’ve probably heard of turmeric as a superfood herb, with its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. But did you know the active ingredient that helps with these things in turmeric is actually curcumin? This is an anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory compound that is excellent to help fend of everyday colds and flus as well as more serious conditions like cancer. Plus, since inflammation is at the root of so many diseases, being anti-inflammatory is an extra bonus.
- Ginger is historically one of the most common substances used to help with colds and flu. It’s a powerful agent in helping ward off and dispel nausea due to its ability to help break up and dispel intestinal gas or other disruptions.8It’s a great remedy to have when you have the flu, as in lemon and ginger tea or in a chew like the Ginger People chews. Plus, because it’s good for nausea, it’s also been shown to be effective for motion sickness, seasickness, and sickness associated with pregnancy.
- Licorice root is good for so many ailments, and one amazing power it has is to boost the adrenals and support the stress response. Your adrenal system is intricately linked with your immune system. When you’re too stressed and your adrenals are worn down, your immune system is more vulnerable to attack. Helping support your adrenals and stress response is a great way to support your immune system! Plus, licorice has been shown to enhance immunity more directly by boosting immune system chemicals that help ward off viruses.
- Chamomile: Chamomile tea is often used as a night-time tea when people need to wind down or need some help falling asleep. It’s great for its relaxing and mood-soothing benefits, as is the essential oil of chamomile in a diffuser. However, chamomile tea is also great to help calm an upset stomach, which is why many people use it when they have colds or flu. It’s a natural tea that, like ginger, can help calm or sooth nausea or indigestion.
- Lavender: Probably one of the most notable effects of lavender is on stress. It helps to relieve stress and increase relaxation, which is so vital when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s also great for helping to promote restful sleep, which might seem evasive when you have a cold or the flu. Many people like soaking in Epsom salts and some lavender oil in the bath when they’re sick, and lavender tea is another great way to enjoy its benefits. Plus, it’s been shown to help soothe stomach bloating!
- Astragalus Root: For thousands of years, astragalus (Huang-Qi) has been used in China to restore life force. As an immune system booster, it strengthens general vitality, improves digestion and builds up the body’s defense against viruses. Popularly found in tea and tablet form, we recommend selecting a product that contains an extract of the root, with 0.5 percent glucosides and 70 percent polysaccharides. For general well-being, this is a good tonic to keep in your routine, but alternate the use of astragalus with another immune-boosting herb such as echinacea, so as not to build up a tolerance to its healing effects.
- Echinacea: has recently found its way into the American vernacular after a long tradition of medicinal use by North American Plains Indians and homeopathic doctors in Europe. Also known as the purple coneflower, it has been used to treat general infections and wounds, the cold and flu, strep throat and allergies. The potent herb encourages white blood cells and lymphocytes to attack invading organisms, thus increasing the number and activity of immune system cells. While you can find echinacea in power bars, teas and capsules, researchers recommend the standardized extract above all other forms.
- Olive Leaf: Olive leaf extract has received a lot of attention from alternative health care advocates in recent decades; however, this immune system booster has been used medicinally for centuries in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, where olive trees grow in abundance. Aside from fighting the common cold and flu, this powerful little leaf can also help increase energy levels, lower blood pressure, stabilize blood sugar levels, and aid in fighting autoimmune disorders. Rich in disease-fighting phytochemicals, olive leaf is especially potent when used in combination with other antioxidants.
- Black Elderberry is unique in providing both antioxidant and immune support, due to its natural concentration of anthocyanins (the antioxidants that give it that deep purple color) and other flavonoids.* Native Americans used the branches of Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) to make flutes, so it is sometimes called “the tree of music.” Often used to flavor jams, syrups and wine, this tart, bright purple berry provides (delicious!) daily immune support throughout the entire season.
- Oregano: In addition to centuries of use in kitchens across Europe, Oregano has enjoyed an equally long history of supporting a healthy immune response.* A natural antioxidant source, Oregano contains phytochemicals that support the body’s natural resistance.* Oregano’s volatile oils help support the healthy microbiome in the intestines and a healthy immune response.* In Greek, Oregano (Origanum vulgare) means “joy of the mountain,” as the herb prefers higher elevations in the Mediterranean region.
And why should healthy be tasteless? No sir! For us healthy means delicious, soothing and warm tea! The teas we selected below help to keep your balanced, your immune system healthy and more importantly, your taste buds very happy! Use local honey with your tea to add a an extra bit of love for your throat health!
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- Cold and Flu Brew – Ginger and anise seed excite your immune system, while peppermint and yarrow work at removing causes of illness. Elderflower flushes out your system, and rosehips top you up with fantastic vitamin C. This light refreshing cup packs a protective punch!
- Sniffle Tea Bags – This is a minty and floral blend of herbs formulated to help your body resist cold weather, fighting off the winter bugs.
- Echinacea & Elder Tea – Elderberries and Echinacea purpurea help to support immune health*. Brew up a cup of this gentle tea any time of the year to reap the benefits!
- Chamomint Tea – An herbal tea for after a meal, Chamomint combines the digestive properties of peppermint with the settling relaxation of chamomile. An aromatic and blissful tea, Chamomint presents a lively pale cup that opens up the airways, focuses on the stomach, and eases away stress and distraction. This unique combination slows down the mind while invigorating the digestion process.
- Avena Dream Tea – Relax and enjoy a calming cup of Avena Dream Tea. With its blend of flowers, herbs, and spices, this tea presents a complex medley of flavors to ease your mind and body. While chamomile and linden flowers induce serenity, feel your stress melt away with the help of oatstraw, catnip, and skullcap.
- 5th Chakra Tea – A warm and soothing decoction blend designed to improve communication all year round. Dry or scratchy sore throats are no match for this combination of roots and spices.
- Essiac Tea – Essiac Tea is a timeless and traditional blend of potent herbs that have historically been used to promote one’s health and well-being.
- Eight Herb Tea – Mixing together eight different herbs synthesizes unique relationships and creates amazing new flavor combinations. With Eight Herb Tea, the blend is comprised of spearmint, rosemary, lemon balm, linden, eucalyptus, wood betony, blackberry leaf, and eleuthero root; the result is a mild green cup that explodes with health benefits too numerous to list here! A full body tonic, Eight Herb Tea is also quite enjoyable, with its fresh clean aroma.
- Quiet Child Tea – This serene infusion has a refreshing minty flavor. Perfect for all ages right before bedtime, or enjoy a cup whenever you may need some tranquility. A wonderful combination of minty fruity flavor, this tea is sure to become a house-hold favorite.
- Relax & Digest Tea – Unwind after a meal with our Relax & Digest Tea, a delicious herbal that stimulates digestion and loosens the mind! Starting with a splash of color, the red rose petals provide a gentle floral note, followed by the unmistakable chamomile to complete the wildflower bouquet. With the sweetness of peppermint, the bite of ginger, and the airiness of fennel, this pale cup keeps your body working while your mind rests!
- Tulsi Tea Bags – Tulsi, or Holy Basil, has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda for its powerful and diverse therapeutic properties. This wonderfully unique and healthful blend combines all three Holy basil varieties to create a delicious tea that’s calming, yet energizing. It is marked by its strong aroma, with hints of lemon and citrus from Holy Basil Vana, the slightly spicy tones of Holy Basil Krishna, and the calm depth of Holy Basil Rama. A well-balanced tea to promote health and well-being and a relaxed, balanced state for mind and body.
Keep in mind – many of the items we discussed above can be shipped to you! That means you can stay home and let your fingers do the shopping! Stay healthy folks!
References:
“21 Immune Boosting Foods, Tonics & Teas.” ; This post was reviewed for medical accuracy by Dr. Carly Wendler, specialist in naturopathic medicine and lactation, November 19th 2019. Written by Katie Mitton.
“Top Ten Immune System Boosts” by GAYOT.com
“5 Herbs for Immune Health” – Gaiaherbs.com
