Immune Support Herbs: Traditional Botanicals for Immune Resilience

Immune-support herbal medicines can be immune-enhancing, and some are also immune modulating. The modulating action may help balance an underactive immune system (often seen in people who catch frequent colds) or calm an overactive one, which can show up as symptoms such as eczema or autoimmune flare-ups.

Below are some of Amina's favourite immune-enhancing herbs and their traditional uses. It is important to seek professional advice from a qualified naturopath or western herbalist so that the right herb and dose are chosen for you, and any contraindications are identified. If you would like an individualised plan, a naturopathic consultation is the place to start.

Echinacea root (Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea purpurea)

Actions: immune enhancing, immune modulating, anti-inflammatory, lymphatic and vulnerary (wound-soothing).

Echinacea is one of the most valued herbs for working with the immune system. Native Americans traditionally used both species together, since each contains different alkylamides and the combination is thought to work in synergy. There are now over 1000 publications in PubMed exploring echinacea.

Traditionally it has been used to support the body through acute and chronic infections, swollen lymphatic glands, sore throats, colds and upper respiratory complaints such as sinusitis and bronchitis. It has also been used in skin conditions such as dermatitis, ulcers and boils.

People taking immunosuppressive medications should use echinacea only with professional guidance.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)

Actions: adaptogenic (supports the adrenal glands), immune enhancing, tonic and cardio tonic.

Astragalus has been studied for its role in balancing T helper cells, and is traditionally used to support people with chronic immune depletion, particularly where there is fatigue, debility, night sweats or low white blood cell counts. Amina often pairs astragalus with echinacea to support immune modulation and overall function.

Cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa)

Actions: immune enhancing, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

Cat's claw is a herb Amina often considers for people working with chronic stealth infections and poor immunity with a tendency to recurrent illness. It has a long traditional reputation for immune support and is one of the herbs she may draw on as part of an individualised plan.

Research has explored its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, including a protective effect on the stomach lining. Higher doses used early in chronic illness call for caution and professional oversight.

Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)

Actions: adaptogenic, immune modulating.

Amina uses Siberian ginseng to support the immune system and protect the adrenals during early infections, and it works well alongside astragalus and echinacea. Traditionally it has been used to improve physical performance, ease fatigue, support the body through stress, and sharpen focus and concentration.

Because Siberian ginseng can be stimulating, it is best used under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.

Withania (ashwagandha, Withania somnifera)

Actions: adaptogenic, anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, immune modulating, anti-anaemic and thyroid supportive.

Used as a tonic for over 2500 years, this traditional Ayurvedic herb is Amina's first choice for adrenal support in people with chronic immune depletion, post-viral recovery, physical stress and those who struggle to thrive.

High in iron, withania has traditionally been used to build the blood in people with anaemia, which is common alongside immune depletion, and may help support low white blood cell counts. Recent studies suggest it may help balance cortisol and support the adrenal hormone DHEA, which is often depleted after long-term stress and in people experiencing chronic fatigue.

Amina finds withania valuable for the nervous system when working with anxiety and stress, as the adaptogenic withanolides help the body adapt to its environment. Studies also suggest it may support T4 thyroid levels where the thyroid is underactive.

Thuja (Thuja occidentalis)

Actions: antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, expectorant (clears mucus) and depurative (supports detoxification).

Thuja has traditionally been used for viral infections, common colds, catarrhal coughs and sinusitis, and applied topically for warts and fungal complaints such as tinea and ringworm. Amina often considers it for people working with mould illness or SIFO (small intestinal fungal overgrowth). Research has explored its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Thuja has contraindications and must be prescribed by a naturopath or herbalist. It is not to be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Working with the right herb for you

Immune-support herbs are most effective when matched to the individual, with attention to dose, timing and any interactions with medications. If you would like guidance on which herbs may suit you, get in touch to arrange a consultation.

This article is general information and not a substitute for individual advice. Please speak with a qualified practitioner before starting any herb or supplement.