Anti-viral protection
A pre-emptive strike is best! What can we do to ensure our immune system is in tip-top condition? I discussed how to boost our immunity in my newsletter of March 2020. Time, I think to recap.
Many herbs have anti-viral properties, namely Andrographis, Echinacea, Olive leaf and Elderberry. These all come in various tableted forms often with the addition of zinc. As a herbalist, I can of course, also mix up specific herbal tonics.
Vitamin C and zinc are crucial. How many of you have passed my delightful zinc taste test?! Not many! At least 1000 mg of vitamin C and 50 mg elemental zinc is necessary to boost helper T cells production and surveillance. Ensure the zinc is in a bisglycinated form, as this has a far superior absorption compared to other forms of zinc.
At least 1000 mg of vitamin C daily is required to boost immunity and up to 2–3000 mg during infection. Vitamin C concentrations rapidly decline during an infectious period. Vitamin C, especially the bioflavonoid quercetin increases T lymphocyte proliferation and enhances natural killer cell activity. Best to take in small divided doses for improved uptake and increased absorption.
Probiotics, particularly those with the strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG and Lactobacillus paracasei are vital. These strains help to promote immune regulation by interacting with the gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) stimulating the production of regulatory T cells. A great deal of our immune system is located in the gut, so stimulating these immune enhancing cells within is crucial. Also ensure your diet includes fermented foods such as kefir, yoghurt, sauerkraut or kimchi.
Ensure your vitamin D levels are within reference range. At least 50 nmol/L in winter and 70 nmol/L in summer. And more than 100 mol/L for increased immunity.
Vitamin D has been shown to play an important role in regulating the immune system. D3 suppresses most elements of the adaptive immune system whilst inducing most elements of the innate immune system. By inducing the innate immune system, vitamin D enhances the response to both bacterial and viral agents, by promoting differentiation and activity of macrophages. (A large white blood cell that ‘eats’ bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi.) Depending on your deficiency you should take between 1000 IU to 3000 IU per day.
The above are the basic, fundamental range of herbs, vitamins and minerals that we should all be taking now.
Dosages would be increased at the first sign of infection, and addition supplements such as a mushroom blend of Shiitake, Cordyceps, Coriolus and Reishi would be added in for added viral fighting force. These mushrooms increase immune activation in viral infections.
