One should develop strong immunity power to fight against bacteria and various viruses. According to Ayurveda, one with quality liver functioning, good digestion, strong metabolic fire (Agni), and a balanced endocrine system generally have more immunity power. To maintain a healthy body and immune system, one should be conscious about the intake; a balanced diet and mental health are equally important.
Herbs to Boost Immunity Power
While considering other aspects, let’s quickly check out Indian ayurvedic herbs that are known to boost immunity power. With natural ingredients from all these ancient medicinal herbs listed below, we can get the necessary nutrients to keep the immune system strong.
1. Andrographis
Commonly known as Creat or Green chiretta, Andrographis is a bitter-tasting herb that can be found in 26 different Ayurvedic formulations. Andrographis is rich in compounds known as andrographolides. Andrographolide can modulate the innate and adaptive immune responses by regulating macrophage phenotypic polarization and Ag-specific antibody production. (source)
Andrographis is most widely used to treat cold and flu symptoms. Andrographis is also said to act as a natural immune booster. According to research published in 2017, scientists found that Andrographis appears to be beneficial for relieving symptoms of acute upper respiratory tract infections. Andrographis was also found to shorten the duration of cough, sore throat, and sick days compared to standard care.
2. Tulsi – Holy Basil
Tulsi or Holy basil is an aromatic perennial plant that is one of the best medicinal herbs in Ayurveda. Tulsi is an antibiotic, germicidal, fungicidal, and disinfectant agent and effectively protects our body from all sorts of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. It contains phytochemicals, bioflavonoids, and antioxidant compounds like rosmarinic acid, an antimicrobial agent for treating infections in the respiratory tract.
Gargling with tulsi decoction helps to reduce throat pain and mouth ulcers. During fever, applying the paste of Tulsi leaves on cold feet is beneficial.
3. Ginger
Ginger is antibacterial, and it also contains a phenolic anti-inflammatory compounder called gingerol that may be responsible for relaxing blood vessels. The antibacterial effects of gingerol help in curing cold and sore throat. Another component in ginger – zingerone – is an antioxidant.
Ginger is very much effective in keeping your body warm and helps break down the accumulation of toxins in your organs. It can also help prevent nausea and soothe an upset stomach.
4. Garlic
Garlic contains antiseptic, anti-fungal, and nutritive properties; this may be why it has been considered a very important herb for thousands of years by Ayurveda.
Including garlic in your diet will offer natural support to the immune system. Garlic destroys natural toxins, encourages the maintenance of normal body temperature, and supports the lungs. Not only does garlic offer natural support for the immune system, but it can also clear harmful bacteria.
5. Turmeric
Like Garlic and Giger, turmeric (Curcuma longa) also has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine. The primary active component of turmeric is curcumin. Curcumin is a natural antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.
Surprisingly, Tumeric can also help depression. Depression is associated with lower levels of BDNF. Tumeric can help boost levels of BDNF; it looks like Tumeric is an effective antidepressant. (Source)