When it comes to the winter months, everyone is anxious to ensure they are keeping the bugs at bay and the germs away. However, it’s not easy to avoid all the coughs and colds and conditions going around. The best way to avoid getting laid up with Man Flu is to ensure that you are the healthiest version of yourself that you can possibly be. The best place to start is by building you immune system so it is the powerhouse that it needs to be to fight off incoming warriors of disease. Luckily, the Earth itself provides us with a whole plethora of tools to do this, starting with some very powerful herbs. Both Indian and Chinese medicine have been using herbs and spices to stave off illnesses for thousands of years, so utilizing some of their methods to build the immune system can only be beneficial; after all, prevention is the best medicine.
- Ginseng
Perhaps best known as a powerful aphrodisiac for men, ginseng is, in fact, an excellent immune booster. Studies have shown that ginseng decreases the number and severity of colds in American adults. It also helps to lower blood sugar levels in order to help the immune system function more effectively. Using supplements such as Ultimate Man Once-A-Day will provide a concentrated boost of ginseng while combining other vitamins to build the immune system.
- Cinnamon
Cinnamon is somewhat of a wonder spice. It mimics the effects of insulin by balancing blood sugar levels, which not only helps you with weight loss but keeps the immune system balanced. Cinnamon is high in the antioxidants polyphenols and proanthocyanidins which help to fight against infection and the onset of cancer.
- Turmeric
Turmeric has been known to be a powerful spice for thousands of years and has recently been more prominent in the scientific community as showing to help prevent and treat cancer. It contains a component called curcumin which is a strong anti-inflammatory which boosts the immune system by keeping tissues and organs functioning effectively. The immune system takes its cue from the digestive system and curcumin helps to keep the gastrointestinal tract clear to absorb nutrients.
- Cayenne
Cayenne is as powerful as it is spicy. Not only does it lower blood pressure which helps to keep a healthy heart, it also breaks down phlegm, which helps it to pass more easily through the lungs, keeping the lungs clear. It helps to build a healthy mucus membrane which is essential for a well-functioning immune system, while also featuring high levels of beta-carotene and antioxidants.
- Oregano
Oregano is an extremely strong antifungal, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial herb due to the strong working components of carvacrol and thymol. Incredible for the digestive tract, oregano helps to kill parasites and bacteria in the intestinal tract while also preventing ulcers, assisting with kidney health and easing digestive irritation.
- Parsley
Parsely contains an anti-oxidant called apigenin which is the kind of all anti-oxidants. It helps all the others to function more effectively, fighting cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
Try using some of these herbs in teas or by infusing them in oils. One great way to take these herbs and spices is to soak them in vodka (over 50 proof) for 3 weeks, and take them as a tincture; 5 drops a day. Careful as some tinctures can be very strong and can burn the mouth, so always take them in water.
