Herbs for Immunity

For thousands and thousands of years, herbs have been prized for their ability to support and enhance our immune system. Immunity-boosting herbs such as Echinacea, elderberry, and astragalus have gained popularity in recent years due to their potent antiviral and antioxidant properties. Echinacea, known for its ability to stimulate immune cell activity, helps to ward off colds and flu. Elderberry, with its rich content of vitamins and antioxidants, not only helps strengthen the immune system but also soothes respiratory discomfort. Astragalus, on the other hand, is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to strengthen the body's defense against pathogens. Incorporating these herbs into our daily routine, through teas, tinctures, or supplements, can provide valuable support for our immune health and keep us feeling strong and resilient.

Storing Herbs

Light, heat, moisture, and exposure to air deteriorate dried botanicals. Store your dried herbs in airtight, light-shielding, dry containers that will keep out insects and rodents. Canning jars or clean recycled jars with tight fitting lids work best. Coffee cans, paper or plastic bags may be appropriate containers as well depending on the herb. Store in a dark, cool place. 

Buying Herbs

Good herb has color, aroma, and flavor. Varieties of herbs as they are growing and co-mingling in the garden or in the wilds naturally show a diverse array of colors and shades of green. They will continue to show a similar diversity of color when properly harvested, dried and displayed in jars. Settle for nothing less than the best when it comes to herbs.

Recommended Herbal Vendors

Mountain Rose Herbs

Banyan Botanicals 

Starwest Botanicals 

Pacific Botanicals

Local *be sure to check out any spots local to you

Immunity

Echinenca: helps to boost the immune system, helps the body fight infection and help recover faster from illness. Native to North America. Echinacea is loaded with antioxidants, flavonoids, cichoric acid and rosmarinic acid, which helps defend your body against oxidative stress. 

Garlic: studies have shown, eating garlic reduces the risk of becoming sick in the first place, as well as how long you stay sick. It can also reduce the severity of symptoms. 

Ginger: supports healthy digestion, and blood circulation, which in turn supports a healthy immune response. Ginger root contains pungent compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which help to stimulate circulation of blood and benefit all areas of the body.

Honey: activates the immune system’s response to infection and prevents cell proliferation. Controlling cell proliferation is key to stopping viruses. 

Astragalus Root: a prominent herb in Chinese medicine, has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Research suggests that the root can boost resistance to infection and help to regulate the body’s immune response. 

Angelica Root: is a herb used in Chinese medicine to enrich blood, promote blood circulation and modulate the immune system.

Elderberry: traditionally has been used for immune support, both as a daily tonic and at the start of an immune challenge. Elderberry is unique in providing both antioxidant and immune support, due to its natural concentration of anthocyanins (the antioxidants that give it that deep purple color) and other flavonoids. Elderberry supports overall immune health.

Oregano: means "joy of the mountain," as the herb prefers higher elevations in the Mediterranean region. In addition to centuries of use in kitchens across Europe, Oregano leaf has enjoyed an equally long history of supporting a healthy immune response. Oregano contains pungent volatile oils which offers support for maintaining healthy respiratory function and a healthy immune response. 

Elderberry Syrup

3/4 cup dried elderberries

3 cups water

1 teaspoon dried cinnamon or 1 cinnamon stick

1 teaspoon dried cloves or 4 whole cloves or 1 drop clove essential oil

1 tablespoon fresh ginger or 1 teaspoon dried ginger or 1 drop ginger essential oil

1 cup raw honey

In a large pot, bring the elderberries, water, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the liquid has reduced by half, about 40-45 minutes. Allow the liquid to cool, and then drain the liquid using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Press all liquid out of the berries using the back of a wooden spoon. Add the raw honey and mix well. Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to two months.

Immune-boosting Bitters

1 tbsp honey

1 oz dried astragalus root

1/2oz dried angelica root

1 tsp dried ginger

1 tsp dried orange peel

1 cinnamon stick

1 tsp cardamom seeds

10oz alcohol (recommended: 100 proof vodka)

Dissolve the honey in 2 teaspoons of boiling water. Let cool. Combine the honey and the next 7 ingredients in a mason jar and pour alcohol on top. Seal tightly and store the bitters in a cool, dark place. Let the bitters infuse until the desired strength is reached, 2-4 weeks. Shake the jars regularly (about once a day). When ready, strain the bitters through a muslin cheesecloth or coffee filter. Store strained bitters in an airtight container at room temp. 

How to use it: Mix bitters into hot tea or take a few drops first thing when you wake up for protection during cold and flu season.