Our top 3 herbs for the immune system

They go hand in hand: winter and viruses. Fortunately, your body has an impressive system that can protect you: the immune system. In our assortment You will find many herbs that have a supportive effect on this. Don't know where to start? We are happy to help you on your way and explain our top 3 herbs below: Echinacea, Scots Pine and Spilanthes.

Echinacea and your immune system

Echinacea (Echinacea Purpurea L.), also known as purple coneflower, is cultivated all over the world today. This flower originates from North America, where Native American tribes already used it for snake, dog, and insect bites. The root was also chewed to stimulate the immune system and for its soothing effect on the throat. The stimulating effect on the immune system was adopted by the first colonists, and in 1871, the first Echinacea product entered the commercial market. Many studies and scientific reports followed, and today you can still find Echinacea in our own medicine cabinets. This is not surprising, as this plant is a so-called 'immunomodulator' and actually contributes to the proper functioning of our immune system**. Additionally, it can act as a complementary treatment for recurring upper respiratory tract infections**, provide relief for an irritated or tickly throat**, and contribute to maintaining urinary tract health**.

Scots Pine and the airways

The Scots Pine (Pinus Sylvestris L.) is native to Northern, Eastern, and Central Europe, Western Asia, Scotland, and Spain. Consequently, this tree is used medicinally in various cultures and countries. Hippocrates already recommended the resin, needles, and buds, as it was believed to be beneficial for the respiratory system and for maintaining flexible joints. Hildegard of Bingen also considered the Scots Pine as very useful to humans. Nowadays, the Scots Pine still used, among other things, for its beneficial effect on the throat and congested airways**. It is said to help breathe more freely**. The plant owes this effect primarily to its essential oil and resins. This herb can also be combined well with Echinacea.

Spilanthes and its effect on microorganisms

Spilanthes (Spilanthes Oleracea Jacq.) is also known as ABC herb or champagne leaf. It is native to Africa and South America and, for that reason, may sometimes work better for people from these regions than Echinacea. People from both continents are said to have independently discovered its beneficial effects on teeth, and it is believed to be good for the urinary tract. It has a strong, pungent taste. Like Echinacea, this herb can support the immune system. Additionally, antimicrobial and antiseptic effects are attributed to the plant. These are believed to be primarily due to the alkaloid substance spilanthol. Alongside Echinacea, this herb is, in our opinion, a wonderful addition to your medicine cabinet. In fact, Spilanthes and Echinacea can enhance each other's effects and be effectively combined to support the immune system.

What else can you do?

Take a look at our, for example, as well Black Elder Tincture or Solstice Complex. Naturally, your immune system needs much more to function properly. After all, your overall lifestyle affects this. Therefore, in addition to supporting it with herbs, also consider your diet, sufficient rest, sleep and exercise, hygiene, and support your body when necessary with the vitamins and minerals the immune system requires. Think of vitamin D, vitamin C, or zinc.

Health claims awaiting European approval

Source: Great Handbook of Medicinal Plants, Dr.Geert Verhelst, 11^e Busy