A general consensus was that your genes determined how strong or weak your immune system was.
New research on twins dispels this notion, and claims that your immune system is not made, it’s born.
The Scientific American is quoted:
“In one of the most comprehensive analyses of immune function performed to date, researchers analyzed blood samples from 105 sets of healthy twins. They measured immune cell populations and their chemical messengers—204 parameters in all—before and after participants received a flu shot.
“Differences in three fourths of these parameters depended less on genetics than on environmental factors, such as diet and prior infections. Genetics had almost no effect on how well individuals responded to the flu vaccine, judged by antibodies produced against the injected material.
“And among identical twin siblings, who have the same genome, immune system features differed more strikingly within older twin pairs than in younger sets. The findings, published January 15 in Cell, argue that life habits and experiences shape our body’s defenses more than the DNA passed down from our parents.”
This is good news for those trying to enhance their immune system. Now you know that it all depends on how you treat your body. Below are 5 natural supplements to support the immune system:
5 Natural Supplements For the Immune System
1. Dandelion whole plant, purslane top, indigo leaves and root, thlaspi whole plant, bupleurum root, scute root, typhonium rhizome, cinnamon twig, licorice root and ginseng root.
Exclusive to Nature’s Sunshine, the VS-C formula is a combination that Chinese herbalists would describe as “metal enhancing.” These herbs create a favorable environment for microbial balance and overall health.
Dandelion root has nutritive properties for the liver, kidneys, stomach and blood. Purslane tops were eaten by American pioneers and in the Orient in the belief that they nourish the liver and blood.
Indigo leaves and root were traditionally used to support detoxification processes. Bupleurum root is a Chinese bitter herb that nourishes the liver and promotes perspiration. Typhonium rhizome supports the respiratory system.
Scute root has been used to support the gallbladder and spleen. Cinnamon twig benefits the intestinal tract.
Licorice root adds harmony and nourishes the adrenal glands. Ginseng root is a well-known adaptogen, promoted as a general body builder. This formula contains the same herbs found in VS-C but in a highly concentrated blend. It:
- Supports the immune system.
- Fights off biological stressors.
- Nourishes the liver.
- Supports detoxification.
- Promotes a healthy respiratory tract.
2. Beta-glucans, arabinogalactan, colostrum, cordyceps mycelia, reishi mushroom mycelia and maitake whole mushroom.
This formula (Immune Stinmulator) provides powerful support for the immune system. Beta-glucans stimulate the immune system into action.
They increase the production of macrophages, T-cells, B-cells, natural killer cells and cytokines, all of which strengthens the body’s natural defense system.
Arabinogalactan stimulates natural killer cell and macrophage activity. It also helps increase Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus flora, two beneficial types of bacteria.
Rich in protein and immune-enhancing transfer factors, colostrum supports the immune system of the newborn. It also helps protect beneficial microorganisms in the intestinal tract to bolster defenses.
Reishi and maitake mushroom are thought to boost immune activity, increase the activation of natural killer cells and activate macrophages. Cordyceps increases T-cell and B-cell activity, important to immune response.
3. Vitamin D3, elderberry fruit extract, echinacea aerial parts, willow bark extract, royal jelly and olive leaf extract.
The cloudy winter months (when people receive little sun exposure) are the hardest months for the immune system. During these times, people are less likely to have needed levels of vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin.
Elderberry D3fense is a unique blend specifically formulated to support the immune system.
It contains a healthy dose of vitamin D3, which mounting research indicates strengthens the immune system, along with key ingredients elderberry fruit extract and Echinacea purpurea.
Elderberry D3fense also contains willow bark extract, which contains salicin; olive leaf extract, which features oleuropein, the substance in olive wood that helps protect the tree; and royal jelly, a nutrient-dense substance secreted by the honey bee and containing fats, carbohydrates, amino acids and vitamins.
4. Olive leaf extract
Now, I know this is part of #3, but I like it so much it needed another mention. Plus, I like to combine this with Elderberry D3fense.
Most people know the benefits of olive oil for circulatory health. But NSP Olive Leaf Extract appears to support several circulatory needs all at once, including blood pressure balance, arterial health, heart rhythm and providing free radical protection. Oleuropein, a key constituent, is thought to prevent LDL or “bad” cholesterol from oxidation. It:
- Helps protect against unwanted invaders.
- Supports blood pressure levels already within the normal range.
- Fights free radical damage by bad cholesterol.
- Supports blood sugar levels already within the normal range.
- Supports the immune, circulatory, urinary and digestive systems.
5. Cleavers aerial parts, red clover blossom extract, stillingia root, prickly ash bark and vegetable glycerin
This blend in Lymphatic Drainage is designed to support the body’s efforts to drain the lymphatic system. It may help disperse lymphatic congestion, improve nutrient absorption and enhance immune function.
The ingredients in Lymphatic Drainage work together to clean and tone the lymphatic system. Cleavers (or clivers) tones the lymphatic system through its purifying and diuretic properties.
Red clover supports blood circulation. Stillingia root increases drainage and limits stagnation, while prickly ash bark stimulates the circulatory and the lymphatic systems of the body and is especially effective on mucous membranes.
The lymphatic system consists of a myriad of delicate vessels found in almost every tissue of the body that contains blood vessels. These vessels perform essential functions, including the transportation of nutrients from the small intestine into the interstitial space and the removal of waste products from cellular metabolism.
A vast array of materials must be transported by this system through small movements such as the pressure changes that occur during breathing and pulsations from arterial circulation. Consequently, efficient lymphatic system drainage is helpful to promoting overall health. It:
- Supports the lymphatic, circulatory and immune systems.
- Helps the body maintain a healthy network of internal vessels.
- Helps remove cellular waste from the body.