As mentioned in the other article, the immune system, which is the set of cells and their activity against antigens or infectious agents that comprises of the body's defense system against diseases. The immune system does a great job of keeping people healthy and preventing infections. Beside foods and nutritional supplements, herbs also play a important role in helping the immune system defend against viruses and bacteria attacks.

Here are some very common herbs that have proven record in strengthen the immune system

1. Echinacea

Echinacea, or the "purple cornflower," has been used as a medicinal remedy by Native American Indians for over 400 years. Unlike antibiotics, which are directly lethal to bacteria, echinacea makes our own immune cells more efficient in attacking bacteria and viruses. In other words, unlike a vaccine which is active only against a specific disease, echinacea stimulates the overall activity of the cells responsible for fighting all kinds of infection.

2. Goldenseal Roots

Goldenseal Root contain the powerful alkaloids like berberine and hysdratine to help maintaining a strong inmune defense. and exhihit anti-microbial and anti- bacteria properties. Goldenseal root is often used to boost the medicinal effects of other herbs it is blended or formulated with.

3. Usnea

Usnea is a lichen; a combination of an algae and a fungus growing together. Also known as Old Man's beard, it grows in little hair-like tufts, with the green algae covering the white string like fungus. Usnea might be used in acute situations as well as for long term immune enhancement and general prevention.

4. Shitake

Like other mushrooms, these specialty mushrooms are as mysteriously unique as they are delicious. Shitake contains an active compound contained in these mushrooms called lentinan that has the ability to power up the immune system, strengthening its ability to fight infection and disease.

5. Hyssop oil

Hyssop oil is great for cleansing the aura and breaking energetic cords. The oil is mild enough to be applied directly on almost any of the chakras. Hyssop boosts the immune system and fights viruses, fungi and bacteria. One safe way to apply it is to rub a drop into the soles of each foot so that it will be absorbed.

6.Siberian ginseng

Specialized cells which eliminate bacterial and viral infections are made as needed by the immune system. Richly supply your immune system with nutrients, and it easily counters infection, building healthy white blood cells to kill anthrax and other germs. Starve your immune system and it will falter, leaving your lymph nodes and other tissues open to infection and destruction.

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