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By Greg Arnold, December 4, 2003, Abstracted from “Top 10 Immune Boosters” in the December 2003 issue of Taste for Life Magazine
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The health of our immune systems makes the difference between and days filled with cough medicine, empty tissue boxes, and sick days from work. Unfortunately, most people will experience the latter at least once during the winter because they do not keep their immune systems strong.
Here is a “Top 10” list for immune-boosting supplements that are natural and have virtually no side effects:
ASHWAGANDHA has been used for centuries as an ayurvedic herb to combat stress by increasing white blood cell and platelet counts.
ASTRAGALUS helps treat colds and upper respiratory tract infections by enhancing white blood cell activity
ECHINACEA shortens the duration and severity of colds, the flu, and shows powerful anti-inflammatory properties, with 1 teaspoon of Echinacea purpura juice being comparable to 100 mg cortisone.
ELEUTHRO, also known as siberian ginseng, is an adaptogen that helps normalize all body functions with the most beneficial effects seen after six months of continued use.
GARLIC contains the active ingredient allicin. Used to treat parasites, yeast infections, and earaches, 600 mg of garlic can also lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
SCHISANDRA is so effective in improving liver function that it is frequently used to treat hepatitis. The adaptogen’s effect on increasing mental acuity and stamina has made it a staple herb for chronic fatigue syndrome.
MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS have the “Fab 4” (Reishi, Shiitake, Active Hexose Correlated Compound, Turkey Tail) stimulate the immune system to protect against liver damage, high blood pressure, bronchitis, stimulating natural killer cells, and inhibiting immune system-suppressing cytokines.
VITAMIN C is a classic vitamin that protects the body from free radicals, helps destroy bacteria and viruses, facilitate wound healing, help make adrenal hormones and lymph cells.
COLOSTRUM is filled with immune system proteins called immunoglobulins that fortify the immune system.
METHYLSULFONYLMETHANE (MSM) serves as a potent detoxifier in the body while boosting immune function to help facilitate recovery from injuries.
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