Ayurvedic medicine is the world’s oldest medical science and it takes a holistic approach to health care. It has always focused on disease prevention, rather than treatment. Accordingly, there is a wealth of Ayurvedic information on natural immunity boosters. So, it’s no surprise that some of the best immune boosters are Ayurvedic herbs.
It would be almost impossible to describe any single herb or medicine as the best, so here’s a short list of the top 5 immunity booster medicines.
The Best Immunity Booster Medicines
1. Amla
Amla is the best known Ayurvedic herb when it comes to immunity. This makes sense as it is the richest natural source of vitamin C, which plays a critical role in healthy immune function. Aside from its vitamin C content, amlas are rich in a variety of nutrients and phytochemicals. The herb extract contains a range of phenolics such as anthocyanins, ellagic acid, and flavonols. All of them exhibit a variety of biological effects like anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumor, and hepato-protective effects. Of course, the most important are the immunomodulatory and antibacterial effects. These benefits have been confirmed in several studies and this is why it is a staple ingredient in almost every ayurvedic immunity booster.
2. Ashwagandha
Generally associated with bodybuilding and fitness, ashwagandha is also extremely effective at supporting immune function. This benefit is linked to its classification as an adaptogenic herb, which means that it improves the body’s response to both physical and mental stress. Studies suggest that it supports thyroid and adrenal gland activity, which would also have a stimulating effect on immune function. There is evidence that ashwagandha supplementation even increases certain antibody responses.
3. Zinc & Vitamin D
The importance of vitamins and minerals has been reinforced by the COVID pandemic, with more severe symptoms reported in patients with vitamin D deficiencies. Zinc supplements are also increasingly prescribed because of its critical role in immune cell development and the inflammatory response. Studies have shown that Vitamin D enhances the ability of monocytes and macrophages to fight pathogens, while zinc deficiency has been linked to increased risk of infections.
4. Chyawanprash
Chyawanprash is often described as the best immune booster and it’s hard to argue with that description. It is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation, dating back over 2,000 years ago, and its primary ingredient is amla, along with over 20 medicinal herbs. The primary use of chawanprash has been to support immune function and this has been validated by modern research. Studies show that it can lower the risk of infections and allergies, exhibiting antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects. While the traditional formulation is rather cumbersome and unpalatable for kids, chyawanprash is now even available in a convenient child friendly format — that makes it the best immune booster for kids.
5. Triphala
Like chyawanprash, triphala is an ancient Ayurvedic polyherbal formula comprising of three herbs — bibhitaki, amalaki, and haritaki. Known for their antioxidant properties and complex phytonutrient profile, its no surprise that triphala offers a wide range of benefits. Aside from digestion, it can also boost immunity. This benefit has been validated through research, which shows that its ingredients work as potent immunostimulants and immunosuppressants, defending against both weakened immunity or hyperimmune response in chronic inflammation. This is why it experts believe it may be a better alternative than many allopathic immunomodulators.
6. Haldi
The main bioactive compound from this Ayurvedic herb, curcumin, is one of the most studied natural ingredients for its wide-ranging therapeutic benefits. Curcumin supplements and Ayurvedic medicines containing haldi are commonly used to treat infections and strengthen immunity. Curcumin is believed to aid immunity through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which regulate immune response and protect against oxidative stress.
7. Tulsi
This is one of the most revered herbs not just in Ayurveda, but in Indian culture as a whole. Tulsi is not just a source of spiritual benefits, but is a rejuvenative or rasayyana herb that can invigorate the immune system. Modern studies suggest that tulsi is an effective natural immune booster because of its proven anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-stress properties.
It’s no mystery why everyone is looking for immunity boosters right now. We’re all hoping to get through the coronavirus pandemic without succumbing to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. While your immune system is undoubtedly your best defense against all types of infections, it is not a fool proof defense. So, in addition to using the natural immune boosters listed above, make it a point to follow government and health authority advisories on wearing of masks and social distancing too.
References:
Singh, Manish K et al. “Immunomodulatory role of Emblica officinalis in arsenic induced oxidative damage and apoptosis in thymocytes of mice.” BMC complementary and alternative medicine vol. 13 193. 27 Jul. 2013, doi:10.1186/1472–6882–13–193
Medrano, Mayte et al. “Vitamin D: Effect on Haematopoiesis and Immune System and Clinical Applications.” International journal of molecular sciences vol. 19,9 2663. 8 Sep. 2018, doi:10.3390/ijms19092663
Prasad, Ananda S. “Zinc: role in immunity, oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.” Current opinion in clinical nutrition and metabolic care vol. 12,6 (2009): 646–52. doi:10.1097/MCO.0b013e3283312956
Gupta, Arun et al. “Evaluation of Cyavanaprāśa on Health and Immunity related Parameters in Healthy Children: A Two Arm, Randomized, Open Labeled, Prospective, Multicenter, Clinical Study.” Ancient science of life vol. 36,3 (2017): 141–150. doi:10.4103/asl.ASL_8_17
Belapurkar, Pranoti et al. “Immunomodulatory effects of triphala and its individual constituents: a review.” Indian journal of pharmaceutical sciences vol. 76,6 (2014): 467–75. PMID: 25593379
Shetty, Somashekar et al. “Evaluation of Antioxidant and Wound Healing Effects of Alcoholic and Aqueous Extract of Ocimum sanctum Linn in Rats.” Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM vol. 5,1 (2008): 95–101. doi:10.1093/ecam/nem004
