Supplements for Immune System Health
As the winter season approaches, it’s important to make sure our immune systems are healthy to ward off infections. There are a few simple things that can be incorporated from a naturopathic perspective. Looking at a few of the studies done in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), one of the most recent reviews found that vitamin C demonstrated benefit especially in patients subjected to cold stress. There seems to be inconsistent evidence for Asian and North American ginseng. Allicin, an extract of garlic, was effective in the single trial that was conducted. Echinacea purpurea is the most consistently used variety and was effective in 83% of trials. However, a Cochrane review determined that Echinacea preparations vary greatly. Obtaining expert advice is warranted in most cases. Another Cochrane review determined that Zinc lozenges were effective in only 56% of trials. A review that looked at the effects of Astraglus determined that it was safe and that it may be effective in boosting immune activity. Many companies offer supplements that combine several of these ingredients in safe and therapeutic doses. If taking supplements is not for you, then you can always consider Tai chi, which was shown to improve immune function in one study.
- Contributing Writer
Chris Habib, ND
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