During times of great uncertainty, keeping a close eye on your immune system is more critical than ever. In difficult situations, stress and anxiety inevitably can deplete the body’s natural energy reserves and adversely affect our immune system. This is particularly true when diseases are potentially threatening.
Throughout the battle against dangerous pathogens including viruses and bacteria, the immune system plays a critical role and should therefore be kept in a good state.
To protecting our immune system, the first response is to choose a healthy lifestyle and to remember this every day! We will explore a number of easy, adaptable ideas that enhance your well-being, regardless of the situation. It will benefit you to do so.
Look Herbs for Antiviral
Nature provides a variety of herbs specific to our immune system.
- Echinacea, which is known to boost the immune system, contains polysaccharides that improve white blood cells’ production.
- Garlic. Garlic acts as a decongestant and as an antimicrobial and tonic for the immune system.
- Oregano. Oregano distilled in oil is a pot of antiviral and antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory characteristics which have been scientifically proven.
- Ginger. Ginger is a powerful decongesting agent and a traditional fever remedy.
Related: Using Herbal Remedies on the Homestead
Introduce Wild Edibles Rich In Vitamin C
On average, wild plants contain more minerals and nutrients than thee domesticated relatives of theirs that we are so accustomed to eating.
Vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins for maintaining a strong immune system, so it needs to be provided by what we eat because it’s not produced by the body. Here is a selection of wild plants that are high in vitamin C.
- Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale). An outstanding complement to soups or cooked greens.
- Lamb’s Quarters (Chenopodium album). Often perfect for soups or cooked vegetables.
- Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) and Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea). Make a tea with a steeping table spoon with needles per cup of hot water.
- Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiollata). Use it for garnishing or salads.
Related: The Power of Vitamin C
Eat A Healthy & Balanced Diet
Good food is one of the obvious ways that our immune system can be supported or depleted.
- Avoid foods that are sugary, refined and processed. This promotes inflammation and stimulates our immune systems.
- Select zinc-rich ingredients. Zinc is a classic mineral that stimulates the immune system. It is found in abundance in grass-fed lamb and beef, garbanzo beans, kidney beans, and pumpkin seeds.
- Support your gut with fermented foods. Sauerkraut and kefir are filled with beneficial probiotic bacteria.
- Eat organic and sustainable. Stop imposing the impact of harmful herbicides and pesticides in processed products on the immune system. As far as possible, derive your food from the natural approach of organic farming and local farmers.
Related: Remedies – Immune Elderberry Astragalus Gummies
Take Gentle Exercise
Exercise is important for improving cardiovascular health and maintaining optimum weight in your daily routine.
Furthermore, exercise encourages good blood circulation and gives the cells of your immune system fresh supplies of oxygen. Anything you can do to ensure healthy overall health in the long run should improve the immune system.
Take daily walks or biking tours at a minimum and regularly stretch your body. If you want a more structured approach to exercise, look for simple aerobic routines or yoga classes online. Remember, the body will interpret over-exercise or push too hard as stress.
It is therefore best to maintain your routines and adapt to your exercise patterns gradually, in the context that you are accustomed to.
Get Full Sleep
Sleep is essential to our minds and bodies’ optimal functioning. Many of us are still naked, with caffeine behaviors masking our true fatigue levels. Look at your routine at night and consider whether the following measures will benefit you.
- Avoid stimulants close to bedtime. Caffeine or nicotine will interfere with your nighttime sleep.
- Stay away from rich and spicy foods in the evening. These can lead to indigestion, which makes sleep harder.
- Keep the sleep routine consistent. Going to bed simultaneously allows the body to create a daily cycle of sleep.
- Limit screen time before bed. Screens offer a relaxing blue light which makes our minds think that they are still daylight.
- Choose to spend at least an hour relaxing before bed. Meditation, reading or a warm bath are good ways to send the message to our body that the time is right to wind down.
- Ensure that your bedroom is dark, quiet and not too hot. For comfortable sleep the recommended temperature range is 60-67 Fahrenheit.
