The immune system is composed of cells and organs working together to protect the body from all illnesses and infections.
In biology and medicine, the term "immunity" refers to the body's ability to defend itself against threats, ensuring its proper functioning and survival. These threats can include microbes (viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites), cancer cells, or even foreign bodies (such as splinters). Because they are constantly mutating, the immune system must adapt to their evolution.
Factors that influence the immune system
As we age, our immunity weakens, making us more susceptible to infections. These infections can become more frequent and more severe. For example, a simple case of the flu can develop into pneumonia and have serious health consequences.
Many factors in daily life, such as diet, smoking, sleep, physical activity or sedentary lifestyle, stress , the quality of human relationships and the living environment, influence the quality of the immune response.
Health and immunity are therefore linked: taking care of your health on a daily basis helps to boost your immunity, and vice versa.
Natural herbal remedies are effective and highly recommended for boosting your body's natural defenses. They represent an excellent alternative to allopathic medication (antibiotics, insulin, anti-inflammatories, etc.), which is best reserved for the most serious illnesses.
Here are the best plants to incorporate into your daily life to strengthen your immune system:
- Ginger: Ginger is a plant species considered one of the best remedies for preventing respiratory infections such as colds and the flu. It is rich in nutrients and antioxidants that strengthen the immune system and kill viruses.
- Ginseng: Ginseng is a plant that offers numerous benefits to the body. It helps maintain energy and vitality, and combats fatigue and asthenia. It also increases cell oxygenation while promoting the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Immune function is therefore improved.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is effective in eliminating toxins and boosting the immune system to fight germs and bacteria. Furthermore, it is a very good source of antioxidants, vitamin C, and vitamin E.
- Echinacea: Echinacea is a wild flower that possesses immunomodulatory properties and acts as an antiseptic. In fact, echinacea increases the number of white blood cells (or T cells) and other antibodies, potentially exacerbating autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
- Ravintsara: Ravintsara is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of camphor trees. It is ideal for naturally boosting your immunity, particularly in preventing winter illnesses. Ravintsara contains eucalyptol, which has a mucoregulatory effect, helping to strengthen the mucous lining of the respiratory tract.
- Thyme: Thyme is a true asset to the immune system. Its antifungal and antimicrobial properties stimulate immunity and relieve ailments related to colds. Thyme also promotes the development of new cells.
- Tea tree: In essential oil form, tea tree acts as a tonic for the body and the immune system. It helps to effectively fight and heal bacterial and viral infections.
- Astragalus: Astragalus is one of the plants known as "adaptogenic". It possesses antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that help boost the immune system.
Apart from plants, fruits rich in antioxidants and vitamin C such as citrus fruits , goji berries and elderberries are particularly powerful in strengthening the immune system and facilitating the fight against winter infections.
How to use plants
These plants can be used in herbal teas or infusions, with a spoonful of honey added to maximize their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects. They can also be ingested in the form of drinkable ampoules, capsules, or tablets.
Essential plant oils, mixed with a vegetable oil, can be applied by massage to the chest or upper back, for example.