Immune System Support
It took hundreds of years before the germ theory of disease was accepted as a credible body of scientific theory. And it wasn’t until the late-19th century that a name was given to the actual organisms that had plagued human kind since antiquity. We have come a long way in the last 100 years in learning to keep ourselves healthy, and although we may no longer believe that illness is caused by airborne “seeds,” we are still looking for ways to strengthen the immune system and improve immunity.
What Is the Immune System?
Immunity comes from the Latin root “immunis” which means “free” or “untouched.” A healthy immune system does indeed help to keep us ‘’free” or “untouched” from potential harmful organisms or influences. To be sure, without an intact immune system, survival would be nearly impossible. The immune system is a complex system of many organs, tissues, proteins, and cells, all with the primary job of identifying foreign tissue or pathogens from self. The immune system also recognizes dead or damaged cells and clears those out of the body, largely through the lymphatic system. This system also includes the bone marrow, spleen, thymus, and lymph nodes.
The Ayurvedic Approach to Immunity
As with the Ayurvedic approach to health in general, digestion, or the digestive fire called agni, plays a critical role in a robust immune response. Also central to immunity through an Ayurvedic perspective is a substance known as ojas. Semantically, ojas translates to “vigor,” biologically, it is a little more complicated to define. In their book The Yoga of Herbs, Drs. David Frawley and Vasant Lad describe ojas as “the innermost sap of the body.” They go on to say that it “is the basis for clarity of perception, physical strength, endurance, and longevity of the tissues.” Ojas is closely related to kapha, and physically it is described as being a yellow liquid that resides in the heart and circulates through the entire body.
Ojas is enhanced by:
- Tending to the digestive fire and eating foods that are supportive of our particular dosha
- Adequate rest and a good night’s sleep
- Managing or minimizing the stress in our lives
- Appropriate exercise
- A supportive daily routine
- Doing what you love and cultivating loving relationships
- Incorporating herbal support
For detailed reading on the Ayurvedic approach to immunity, you will want to read our Immune Support Health Guide.
Herbs for the Immune System
Fortunately, humans have looked to plants for thousands of years for ways to support health and well-being. Plants are said to impart their life force when we eat them, and herbs are no different. Herbs have long been used as a natural immune booster. Perhaps the most well-known herb in the West to the strengthen the immune system is echinacea. Echinacea is a bitter herb and one of the best detoxifying herbs in Western pharmacology. Banyan Botanicals does not carry echinacea as a bulk herb, but it is included in our Immune Strong formula and the Throat Soother herbal spray. Turmeric is another bitter herb and an herbal giant where immune support is concerned. There is almost nothing turmeric can’t do—it helps to strengthen digestion, improve intestinal flora, purify the blood, and promote a healthy metabolism. Kalmegh is a famous Ayurvedic immune booster also known as “King of bitters.” Kalmegh is said to stimulate the immune system and is especially beneficial for pitta conditions. Its cooling qualities aid in liver health and cleansing the blood. You will find all these herbs and more in the Immune Strong formula, or take them with your favorite herbal combination.
Banyan Quality & Guarantee
Banyan is committed to offering the highest quality organic herbs on the market. Our herbs are sustainably sourced and fairly traded. If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase, simply return your item within 90 days and we will offer you a refund for the cost of the merchandise. We apologize in advance we are not able to refund shipping costs; however, we offer free everyday shipping of orders of $60 or more.
