Natural Remedies Home

controlling dandruffHair on the head is the important feature describing characteristic of humans. Hairs are protein filaments that grow from the follicles in the dermis of skin. Every one us wishes to have long, thick and shiny hair. The matter of concern arises when hairs start to fall or start getting scarce. Hair fall is a problem many of us face. In this condition, the hair either starts getting sparse from balding, hair thinning, or due to a receding hairline. Some people can lose hair due to some medical conditions as well.

Upon realizing that you are losing your hair, there is an increase in anxiety, stress, and confusion as to how to get rid of this problem. There are numerous products available in the market that assures hair growth, and choosing anyone from the whole lot can be a hard task.

Some products may promise that they are enriched with herbs, but it’s difficult to identify or prove the effects of that product on the scalp since there are inclusions of various chemicals that go into making the product.

Instead of applying any product with a fusion of herbs and chemicals, why not try using only herbal preparations or only herbs for hair growth.

Even before these commercial products came into being, the herbs were used for centuries to treat hair fall and also to promote hair growth and strength.

Various herbs are used for hair growth, and every herb has a unique property, which makes it an ideal ingredient while using it for hair care management.

 Herbs which are helpful in hair growth:

1. Reetha or Soap nuts (Sapindus): It is one of the important herbs to promote hair growth. It is also called as soap nuts or fruits. They are dried and used as a whole or in the form of a powder. Reetha fruits are soaked in boiling water, and this liquid is then used to clean the hair. It is very effective for hair fall. Reetha nourishes and cleanses the hair follicles and the scalp. It also promotes healthy hair growth and also possesses anti-inflammatory properties to fight away infections.

2. Amla or Indian Gooseberry (Phyllanthus Emblica)

It is a fruit that contains a large amount of vitamin C and several other antioxidants that help in producing collagen. Collagen increases the rate of hair growth and ensures strong hair growth. This herb can be used in the form of a powder. Dry Amla powder is mixed with coconut oil, and this paste is applied to the hair as a hair mask. Amla powder can also be combined with water to form this paste. This paste, when applied onto the hair, should be kept for at least 30 minutes and then washed with cool water.

It also acts as a conditioner and promotes hair growth with a reduction in the early graying of the hair.

3. Shikakai ( Acacia concinna)

Shikakai is obtained from the bark, leaves, and pods of the Shikakai tree. Shikakai powder helps in strengthening the hair, controlling dandruff, and it also helps in gently cleansing the scalp. Shikakai powder is mixed with water to form a paste and used as a hair mask. It can also be mixed with coconut oil. Shikakai is known to promote hair growth, strengthen the hair roots, and cleanses the scalp.

4. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)

Brahmi is used either in powder form or oil form. It aids in stopping hair fall and also makes the hair thicker and healthier. Brahmi powder is mixed with water, and this paste is applied to the hair and scalp, which is then left for an hour. Brahmi oil head massage is a stress-reliever. The use of Brahmi in any form helps to reduce hair fall, nourish the scalp, in turn, promoting hair growth.

5. Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

This herb is quite effective in enhancing hair growth and maintaining a healthy scalp. When applied, it stimulates the blood vessels and improves circulation. A solution of two parts water with one part dried horsetail should be applied to the hair for better results. Horsetail increases the tensile strength of hair.

6. Lavender (Lavendula Officinalis)

Lavender is known to have a pleasant aroma. Most commonly used in hair care for its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Lavender being a natural insect repellent it protects the hair from lice. A few drops of essential oil of lavender can be mixed with a carrier oil and then massaged gently onto the hair. Lavender keeps the scalp healthy and also controls the production of oil.

7. Bhringraj (Eclipta alba)

It is the most primeval Ayurvedic remedy which has been used for ages. Most commonly, it is used to treat hair loss and rejuvenate the scalp. Freshly procured Bhringraj leaves should be ground and applied directly to the hair. If in a powdered form, then it should be mixed with some carrier oil and then applied to the hair. Bhringraj promotes new hair growth and adds luster and shine to the hair.

 8. Arnica (Arnica Montana)

Arnica has an anti-inflammatory property, and in turn, it makes it a useful herb to maintain the health of the scalp. Arnica is an excellent herb that is used to fight dandruff. Arnica oil, when applied directly to the scalp or in combination with any other oil, leads to healthy hair growth and healthy scalp.

9. Yucca (Yucca schidigera)

This herb is native to the North American desserts. This herb is traditionally used as a natural scalp cleanser and also to make shampoos and soaps. This herb, when applied to the hair, effectively fights dryness, itching, and dandruff. Yucca, when mixed with water, forms an active hair rinse. It prevents dryness and cleanses the scalp.

10. Hops (Humulus lupulus)

Hop is a natural antiseptic. It improves the blood circulation, in turn, thickening the hair. It’s a well- known hair growth stimulant. When applied to the hair in an oil form, it helps in promoting hair growth and thickens the hair.

11. Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Neem oil enhances the rate of hair growth. It also increases the tensile strength of the hair shafts, in turn making them more silky and shiny. It helps in controlling dandruff. Applying neem oil to the hair nourishes and cleans the scalp. Neem being an anti-bacterial, keeps infections away. Neem leaves can be ground finely and made into a paste and used as a conditioning hair pack to nourish the scalp and prevent it from flaking and dryness.

12. Maidenhair ( Gingko Biloba)

This herb is treated as the most favorite in the hair care products. It is very effective in the treatment of hair loss as it improves the circulation of blood to the scalp. Applying an infusion on the hair adds shine to the hair and promotes new hair growth. The infusion of maidenhair is prepared by adding three handfuls of dried herb to two cups of water and then boiled. After boiling, the liquid is strained and then carefully poured over freshly washed hair.

13. Moringa (Moringa oleifera)

This herb contains thiocyanate that strengthens the hair follicles and prevents hair fall. This herb is used as a conditioner that promotes new hair growth. This herb is available in oil form and can be applied directly on to the hair. Regular use of this herb reduces hair loss and stimulates hair growth.

14. Coat buttons (Tridax procumbent)

It is a creeping Ayurvedic herb belonging to the daisy family. This herb contains antioxidants and promotes hair growth.

15. Jatamasi (Nardostachys jatamasi)

This herb is a small shrub whose rhizomes are used and speed up hair growth. This herb has shown to increase hair growth in alopecia caused by chemotherapy.

 16. Bitter apple (Citrullus colocynthis)

This herb is a desert, fruit-bearing plant that is used in Ayurveda. This herb contains glycosides, which are compounds that help to initiate hair growth. The dried fruit pulp is used to treat hair loss. This herb is used in making hair creams and massaged on to the scalp or applied to hair from root to tip.

17. Marking nut (Semecarpus anacardium)

This particular herb is found in sub-Himalayan areas and is used in Ayurveda and Siddha medicines to aid in hair growth. Further research is required for this particular herb to determine its effectiveness and safety.

18. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

Fenugreek belongs to the pea family. It is the most common spice used in cooking and also has potential hair-growing benefits. As per research conducted in 2006, the seed extract of fenugreek is found to improve hair density and thickness in both men and women with minimal hair loss.

Eczema is a disorder in which the skin becomes red, patchy, itchy, and inflamed. This is of different types as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, stasis dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis. The severity can range from mild, moderate, to severe. Most commonly, it appears on the face and cheeks of babies and children, but it can appear anywhere on the body. The symptoms for eczema vary from one child to the other. Along with children, the adults, too, can develop eczema.

It is not contagious, but living with eczema can be challenging. The exact cause is not known but is thought to arise due to environmental or genetic factors.

Eczema cannot be cured but be treated effectively. Depending upon the severity and the patient’s age, treatments application of topical medications, immunosuppressant, and biologic therapies are suggested by the dermatologists.

Sometimes, specific natural and alternative treatments can also be helpful to those who are suffering from eczema.

Before using any kind of natural and alternative treatments, one should look out for the exact symptoms for eczema and consult a dermatologist for further application.

The symptoms of eczema are different for everyone and may appear in different areas of the body. It can be itchy, red, and patchy. The itching sensation is usually mild to moderate. The common symptoms along with itchiness include dry and sensitive skin, red and inflamed skin, dark-colored patches on the skin, crusting, and rough or scaly patches of skin.

Before trying or starting any treatment, one should consult a skin specialist for the exact diagnosis and treatment for eczema.

Let’s have a look at some herbs that can be useful to treat eczema. Many of these herbs are applied topically, while others are to be taken internally only when prescribed by a skin specialist.

Herbs for eczema

1. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula, an anti-inflammatory herb, can treat a variety of diverse skin conditions. The petals of small calendula flowers contain potent actions to treat various health conditions. Calendula extracts primarily inhibit two enzymes, COX and 5 LOX, that are responsible for inflammation.

These enzymes and inflammation substances play an important role in the process of eczema. Calendula comes in the form of ointment and gel, and when applied onto the skin it offers immediate anti-inflammatory and nourishing effects.

When used in combination with other herbs allows the skin to heal faster and provides support for the symptoms too.

Furthermore, it is believed that by using this herb, it benefits eczema by reducing the inflammation and elimination of bacteria and helping the skin heal.

2. Burdock (Arctium lappa)

This particular herb has been used in herbal medicine to soothe the gastrointestinal tract. Burdock is used in North America, The Cherokee, and Malecite traditionally for relieving dry, scaly skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and in the treatment for acne.

It has a high percentage of mucilage and inulin which is a key reason for its use for skin conditions. It acts in such a way that when mucilage comes in contact or is mixed with water it forms a gel-like layer, which in turn soothes the skin.

Similarly, inulin is a humectant and works by drawing moisture up through the skin by hydrating the upper layer of the skin.

3. Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

As per its name, milk thistle contains a white milky sap, a demulcent that forms a gel-like layer that traps moisture and soothes the skin. This herb contains a compound called silymarin.

4. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

The root of dandelion is the most commonly used part of the plant for various therapies and treatments. Some clinical studies report that drinking dandelion juice can stimulate the liver and help clean up dyshidrotic eczema.

The sap which is also called dandelion milk when applied externally can heal eczema. The dandelion milk helps in treating skin disease caused due to microbial or fungal infections. Dandelion root contains several compounds, including inulin, which acts by drawing moisture up to the skin.

Other than the root, flowers of this herb also help in soothing the skin as it contains a compound called lecithin which is a moisturizing nutrient and also used in numerous skincare products. To date, not much research has been done on the topical benefit for dandelion to treat eczema.

5. Oats (Avena sativa)

Oats are cereals that are commonly eaten in the form of either oatmeal or rolled oats.

Research also says that it has potential health benefits. Oatmeal has been used for thousands of years to relieve itching and irritation.

It contains compounds called avenanthramides that possess potent anti-inflammatory action and also exhibit anti-oxidant activity.

Several clinical trials have been conducted to identify the effect of oats on eczema. These studies suggest that after the topical application of oats extracts, there was a significant reduction in the redness, dryness, scaliness, itching, and erythema.

6. Samambaia (Polypodium leucotomos)

This modest fern native to the amazon forest is famous for its use for skin and nervous system conditions.

This fern species is considered as the finest herbal medicine for psoriasis. It also shows promising effects on eczema.

The part of the plant having the therapeutic benefit is the rhizome. The most important property of this plant, when consumed orally is; that it has a great ability to protect and improve the skin’s resistance to the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun.

This herb works by disabling the inflammatory process during such skin conditions. Along with its usefulness in treating skin conditions, this herb is also used in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.

7. Chickweed (Stellaria media)

This small white flower native to Europe is used in Chinese and Herbal medicine and is also recommended by herbalists for skin diseases. The chickweed extract, when used internally, acts as a demulcent, but it’s more commonly used externally to treat rashes and sores.

Chickweed exhibits effective anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties due to various compounds that it contains, like flavonoids, polysaccharides, and cyclic peptides.

8. Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Neem oil is prepared from the seed of the tropical neem tree. Neem oil is extremely beneficial for skin problems. Even though it has a very harsh odor, it is used in a variety of beauty products like creams, body lotions, and other cosmetics.

Neem oil is high in fatty acids and other nutrients. It is used to treat eczema and other skin diseases like ringworm and scabies. Sometimes, it may cause an adverse reaction when applied to sensitive skin or a skin disorder like eczema.

If any person is using neem oil for the first time, then the person should try a small and diluted amount of the oil on a small area of the skin, avoiding face and look for redness or itching. Neem oil is not suitable for use in children and should only be used when consulted with your doctor.

9. Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Nettle is found to have anti-inflammatory, astringent, bactericidal, and healing properties. Stinging nettle has been used to treat eczema from many eras.

The herb has a characteristic property of ‘sting’ which reduces the inflammation that is responsible for the painful and itchy symptoms. Studies suggest that nettle works by reducing the levels of inflammatory chemicals in the body. It also interferes with the body pain signals.

10. Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis)

The herb is useful for the skin to treat wounds, eczema, and other skin conditions. It contains a chemical named berberine, which might act against bacteria and fungi and is under research for immune stimulation properties. This herb is beneficial to treat inflammations and irritations caused by eczema. This herb also has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent properties that help in healing all the wounds by soothing the skin.

Before experimenting with any of these above herbs one should consult with a medical herbalist. Also, perform a patch test on the skin for the first time before application on the skin. Even though the herbs are safe for use on the skin, some people can be allergic or sensitive to them and can cause allergic reactions.

Diabetes is a disorder with higher blood sugar levels than normal. It is a major disorder affecting man worldwide. The herbs for blood sugar are aimed at minimizing higher blood glucose levels naturally.

The blood sugar level is the concentration of glucose that exists in the blood of humans and animals. Glucose is the main source of energy that is obtained from the foods that we eat.

Our body secretes a hormone called Insulin that is made by the pancreas, which helps the glucose from the food to get into the cells, which in turn is used for energy. In some people, the body cannot make enough or any insulin or cannot utilize the insulin well due to which the glucose then starts staying in the blood and further does not reach the cells.

Over a while, having too much presence of glucose in the blood can lead to severe health problems or can indicate a severe medical condition.

Continuous elevation in the blood glucose levels can lead to glucose toxicity, which further leads to cell dysfunction. The continuous high level of glucose in the blood is referred to as Hyperglycemia. And a constant low level of glucose in the blood is referred to as hypoglycemia.

Diabetes is commonly known as diabetes mellitus and is characterized by persistent hyperglycemia. Diabetes can attack anyone from any age group or any person from any walk of life. The number of it affecting people is increasing dramatically.

Diabetes can be treated by making small changes in the diet and lifestyle. But if left untreated, then it can damage the nerves, eyes, kidneys, and other organs.

Various complications arise from this particular disease like heart stroke, dementia, hearing loss, retinopathy, vision loss, nephropathy, neuropathy, etc.

Diabetes is categorized into three different types:

1. Type-1
2. Type-2
3. Gestational Diabetes

Type-1 Diabetes: This type can occur at any age, but most frequently, it is observed in children and adolescents. It was also known as juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes. It is a type of autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks and finishes the beta cells in the pancreas, which make insulin.

The exact cause of the attack is not known and is still under investigation. Due to this, the body either produces very little or no insulin. In such a case, to maintain blood glucose levels, the person needs daily insulin injections.

Type -1 Diabetes is very difficult to diagnose and requires additional tests for its detection. Once a person is diagnosed with type-1 diabetes, it is advised that the person should regular blood sugar checks like at least four times a day and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Currently, there are no preventive measures for type-1 diabetes.

Symptoms for Type-1 Diabetes:

1. Sudden weight loss.
2. Abnormal thirst and dry mouth.
3. Bedwetting.
4. Blurred vision.
5. Frequent urination.

Type-2 Diabetes: The most common type of diabetes. It encompasses about 90% of all diabetes cases. Type-2 Diabetes is also known as diabetes mellitus and is normally described by insulin resistance. Insulin resistance occurs when the body produces insulin but is unable to utilize it effectively. Due to which the blood sugar keeps on rising, leading to hyperglycemia.

Most commonly, it is diagnosed in older adults but is now seen in children, adolescents, and younger adults as well. Type-2 is diagnosed in young individuals due to their poor physical activity and diet, along with obesity. Type-2 diabetes can be managed by making some lifestyle changes, which include a healthy diet, healthy body weight, engaging in some sort of physical activity, etc.

For treating this type, the patients are frequently prescribed with some oral medications like metformin and insulin to control blood glucose levels.

Some risk factors that are associated with type-2 diabetes include:

1. Obesity.
2. Increasing age.
3. High blood pressure.
4. Physical inactivity.
5. Family history of diabetes.
6. History of gestational diabetes.

Symptoms for Type-2 Diabetes:

1. Slower healing of wounds.
2. Blurred vision.
3. Fatigue.
4. Excessive thirst and dryness of the mouth.
5. Frequent urination.
6. Numbness in hands and feet.

Gestational Diabetes: This is characterized by an increase in blood sugar levels, specifically during pregnancy. The placenta produces a hormone that makes pregnant women’s cells less sensitive to the effects of insulin, which in turn causes a rise in blood sugar during pregnancy.

This condition is detected during routine blood sugar testing, which is performed between the 24th and 28th weeks of gestation. Usually, this type of diabetes disappears after pregnancy, but either the affected mother or the child is at increased risk of developing type-2 diabetes later in their life.

Complications can arise and affect the baby in following ways like premature birth, higher than normal birth weight, low blood sugar, jaundice, stillbirth, and, most importantly increased risk of developing type-2 diabetes later in life.

Although there are different oral medications and temporary treatments for diabetes, there are people who nowadays, in combination with the prescribed medications, are opting for some Ayurvedic or herbal preparations or supplements to control their blood sugar levels.

Currently, there is still not enough good evidence that supports the use of herbal supplements or medications for the treatment of type-2 diabetes.

Generally, the specialists do not recommend herbal supplements because there is very little research on their long-term efficacy and safety.

In spite of all this, some people have experienced good results after consuming herbal supplements along with the prescribed oral medications.

Below mentioned are some herbs which are used in controlling the blood sugar levels:

1. Jamun (Syzygium cumini)

It is also known as Malabar plum and Java plum. This tropical tree belongs to a flowering plant family. Most commonly, the seed of this fruit is used in various alternative healing systems. The Jamun seeds are known to have a hypoglycemic property, which lowers sugar in the blood. For better results, Jamun seed powder is added to a glass of water and is consumed on an empty stomach.

2. Neem (Azadirachta indica)

It has found to show some promising effects on controlling the blood sugar levels. The bitter neem leaves are an effective remedy for treating diabetes as they are full of flavonoids, triterpenoids, glycosides and anti-viral compounds, which help in managing the blood sugar levels.

The neem leaves are blended into a blender to form a smooth powder. This powder is then consumed twice daily for optimum benefits.

3. Gymnema (Gymnema Sylvestre)

This herb has wide-ranging therapeutic properties. It is known by its common name called gurmar, meaning ‘sugar destroyer.’

Commonly the leaves and extracts of this herb are used to control blood sugar levels. The leaves of this herb have gymnemic acids as active ingredients that can slow down the movement of glucose from the intestine into the bloodstream.

With this property, the gymnemic acid intermingles with the taste receptors present on the tongue and temporarily suppress the taste of sweetness.

Approximately when 200 to 250mg twice-daily dose of Gymnema extract is taken orally along with insulin or with diabetes medication, then there is a reduction in the blood sugar level in people with type-1 and type-2 diabetes.

The Gymnema extracts can be taken in the form of lozenges, mouthwash, or tea. The extracts of Gymnema Sylvestre reduce cravings for sugar.

4. Fenugreek(Trigonella foenum-graecum)

The herb is used as a medicine and spice for thousands of years ago in the Middle East. According to studies, fenugreek is found to have a significant effect on controlling and lowering the blood sugar level. Fenugreek seeds contain some constituents like flavonoids, alkaloids, vitamins, coumarins, and saponins. Approximately 5 to 15 Gms with one meal per day helps to lower the blood glucose level.

5. Ginseng (Panax ginseng)

It is the root of this plant used in traditional medicine. Ginseng root may help in lowering the blood sugar in people with diabetes. This herb is known for its disease-fighting and immune-boosting benefits. But, researchers have found that this herb slows down the absorption of carbohydrates and increases the cells’ ability to use glucose by increasing insulin secretion from the pancreas, which in turn lowers the glucose level in the blood.

6. Aloe vera

Aloe vera has been used in herbal medicines for thousands of years as it has soothing, revitalizing and therapeutic properties. Leaves of aloe vera contain a clear gel and are widely used in ointments, creams, and shampoos. The bitter liquid called Aloe latex is acquired from the skin of the leaves of aloe vera and is then used in juice drinks, tablets, capsules and toothpaste and mouthwashes.

Initial studies suggest that drinking aloe juice can either help improve blood sugar levels or lower the levels in people with diabetes.

7. Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum)

The herb is also called Holy basil. It is an important entity of all Ayurvedic medicines.

Along with curing common ailments like fighting bacterial and viral infections, strengthening immunity, this herb has diverse benefits. This herb improves the functioning of pancreatic beta-cells and insulin secretion and further increases the uptake of glucose by the muscle cells.

Tulsi leaves have hypoglycemic properties that lower the blood sugar level and also prevent complications of diabetes.

8. Bitter gourd or Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia)

It is cultivated for its edible fruits. Different parts of this herb are effective in the treatment of diabetes and also as laxative, emetic, anthelmintic, etc. Numerous minor animal and human studies suggest that concentrated bitter melon extracts show a hypoglycemic effect.

There is some evidence which states that bitter melon successfully lowers the blood glucose levels when consumed in raw or juice form. This cannot be used or consumed as replacement therapy for insulin or other hypoglycemic drugs.

As there is very less research carried out for these herbs, it is difficult to prescribe or recommend the use of such herbs alone in the treatment of diabetes. These herbs should be consumed along with insulin or other hypoglycemic drugs only under the supervision of a physician or specialist.

To control the blood sugar levels, along with the normal medicines and treatment options, one should make lifestyle and diet changes. The blood glucose levels should be monitored closely and regularly to avoid health problems like heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye problems, nerve damage and others related to diabetes.

No one likes uninvited guests at their place to rest or stay. Similarly, even the human body does not approve of foreign bodies or pathogens like bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites to rest inside it.

Most of the times the body tries to reject the foreign bodies from entering but sometimes the body is not capable of doing so and hence these enter inside it and give rise to some infections.

One such system in our body that helps to fight against the entry of such organisms is the Immune system. The immune system guards our body against harmful organisms from the external environment and is important for survival.

The immune system is comprised of different organs, cells, tissues which work together to protect our body from these foreign organisms.

Without the presence of the immune system, the human body would be easily exposed to harmful pathogens present in the environment and could lead to crucial or life-threatening diseases.

Our immune system needs to carry out some responsibilities so that a human being can live a healthy life. The responsibilities are as follows:

1. Recognize the harmful substances and organisms from the environment.
2. To neutralize these harmful pathogens like bacteria, fungi, viruses or parasites that have entered the body and eliminate them from the body.
3. Fight against the body’s cells that have altered due to a certain illness like the cancerous cells.

As our immune system is constantly keeping an eye on these foreign organisms there are fewer chances that a person may fall ill. But every human being does not have the same kind of immune system. Some people may never fall sick as they have a good immune system, whereas some seem to fall sick all the time due to a poor immune system.

Immune systems are of three types:

1. Innate Immunity: Every person is born with this type of immunity and it’s natural. This type of immunity is for overall protection.
2. Adaptive Immunity: This type of immunity is active and matures throughout our lives. The lymphocytes are involved in this process and develop when a person gets exposed to a disease or immunized against disease through vaccination.
3. Passive Immunity: This type of immunity as the name suggests is borrowed from other external sources. This kind of immunity does not last for a long time.

Most importantly, the cells which help in destroying the disease-causing organisms are the white blood cells (WBCs) also known as the leucocytes.

How do these help in fighting foreign organisms?

As soon as an antigen (a foreign substance that enters a body) is identified numerous types of cells start working together to spot and respond to them. All these cells trigger the B-lymphocytes to produce antibodies that are specialized proteins and lock onto the specific antigen. Once these antibodies are produced they remain in the person’s body forever.

If the person encounters an attack of the same antigen again the antibodies which were already present in the person’s body will start to react and remove that particular antigen from the body.

As everyone has different immune systems, some people can suffer from various disorders of the immune system. These disorders fall into these four categories:

1. Immunodeficiency disorder (this is a primary disorder or it’s acquired).
2. Allergic disorders (the immune system reacts excessively in response to the antigen).
3. Autoimmune disorder (The body’s immune system attacks its tissues treating it as foreign matter).
4. Cancers of the immune systems.

In spite of being a complex system most of the time the immune system protects the body from harmful infections but some people have a weak immune system and are prone to frequent infections. Some people suffer from immunodeficiency disorders which can range from mild to severe, can be present from the birth or may fall prey to environmental factors. For example HIV, certain types of cancer, malnutrition, etc.

People those whose immune system is weak often get infected by pneumonia, bronchitis, meningitis, autoimmune disorders, diarrhea, inflammation of the internal organ, etc.

Autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and systematic lupus erythematous.

Looking at the above difficulties or complications related to the immune system one should always try to boost their immune system to stay away from all these infections caused by some external organisms. Boosting the immune system is not an easy task as it’s not a solo entity. It needs complete balance to function well. Well to boost our immune systems, nowadays there various supplements available in the market which has the ingredients that can improve the immune response.

More commonly Ayurvedic supplements are available more as the contents present in them are natural and do not cause any side-effects. Herbal ingredients are always safe to administer and show a decent result for the same.

Let’s have a look at some herbs that help in boosting the immune system:

Immune Boosting herbs

1. Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

These are brightly pigmented berries that provide both antioxidant and immune support, due to natural concentration of Anthocyanins. Anthocyanin is a flavonoid which is found even in raspberries, blueberries, and bilberries. The supplement contains this fruit and it’s consumed in the early phases of the seasonal changes to support the immune functions. A teaspoonful of Elderberry syrup can fight flu-like symptoms and help people with sinus pains and provide relief.

2. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

It is also known as purple coneflower. Most commonly the aerial parts of the plant are known for their immune promoting properties. Echinacea is an antiviral and antibacterial herb. This herb contains polysaccharides which increase the body’s production of white blood cells which in turn fight the infections. It is mainly used to support acute and continual immune health. Echinacea is available in extract and tablet form so it becomes easy for daily consumption.

3. Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous)

It is the most well-known herb in Chinese medicine that provides good immune support while helping the body in adjusting to daily stress. The root of this shrub helps to boost the resistance to infections and also regulates the body’s immune response. This powerful medicine is sweet and delicious and useful during cold and flu season. If this herb is added to a bowl of soup it can help fight fatigue and boost the immune system. Tincture of this herb is also available and can be used daily.

4. Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata)

This plant is used to avoid influenza and calm digestive issues, liver conditions, sore throats, and fever. This herb also has detoxifying properties that cleanse the blood and strengthens the immune system to combat infections.

5. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

The root of this plant reduces inflammation and its antimicrobial property fights against bacteria and fungus making it a key immune-boosting food. Ginger root helps to soothe nausea and motion sickness that is experienced during chemotherapy sessions. Ginger also aids in circulation and heat generation in the body. Freshly grated ginger is used to make tea during cold climates and acts as a perfect cold and cough remedy. Ginger is easily available as ginger ale, capsules and candy form. Ginger should be avoided if a person is consuming blood thinners or aspirin.

6. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

It is a natural antioxidant and a powerful antimicrobial herb. It contains some phytochemicals that support the body’s natural resistance. Oregano is effective in treating bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections and makes it a great immune-boosting herb. Oregano is used as a seasoning in Italian dishes like pizzas and minestrone. Volatile oils from oregano help support the healthy microbiome in the intestines.

7. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

It is the most important and beneficial herb that is used for treating different health conditions. It boosts and modulates the immune system. When consumed, it increases the number of pathogen-fighting agents and also reverses the ill-effects of the anti-cancer drugs on the immune system.

8. Sage (Salvia officinalis)

It is an aromatic plant that has green leaves which are a bit fuzzy to touch. When fresh, it is fragrant and flavorful. It has been learned that this herb has memory-enhancing effects and may also be capable of boosting mood. It also has anti-bacterial properties which can be useful when the body is fighting off unwanted bacteria. Most commonly used to garnish vegetables, pork or poultry.

9. Garlic (Allium sativum)

The bulb is the most common cooking ingredient found in every household. It is readily available and can be added to every diet and compliments many flavorful dishes. It is considered as a powerful fighter for the immune system. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities are supported by Allicin which is a potent sulfur compound that is found in garlic. Garlic can help in reducing the severity of cold and flu symptoms which in turn stimulate the immune system and help to produce more number of cells that fight off invading bacteria and viruses.

10. Medicinal Mushrooms

Mushrooms are being used for thousands of years to increase longevity. The medicinal mushrooms have strong immune-building properties. The most commonly used medicinal mushrooms include Shiitake (Lentinula edodes), lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum) and Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris). The mechanism of action of mushrooms is different from other immune-boosting tonics. Instead of energizing the immune system the mushrooms help to organize and trigger the specific immune cells to function better. When the mushrooms are dried they are hard to digest and blend in and so are recommended to be taken as a strong broth or tea.