THESE PLANTS WILL HELP YOU STAY HEALTHY
We are not panicking, but we are jumping on the bandwagon. All the talk on the news and everywhere else, for that matter, we thought we would take a look at some of the plants that will boost our immune system. Rest assured, we cannot guarantee that these plants will keep you from getting sick, but they can’t hurt either. Besides, just being in the garden planting and tending to them will improve your health right of the bat.
Plants That Boost Your Immune System: Garlic
Garlic is full of compounds that help your body fight off and prevent infections (and vampires). It has also been used throughout history to disinfect wounds and fight fungal infections. Adding garlic to recipes is an easy way to spice up our food and stay healthy. For more information about growing garlic, see our blog post Grow Your Own Garlic.
Plants That Boost Your Immune System: Blueberries
This is an easy one. Who doesn’t love a handful of fresh blueberries on their own or added to yogurt? Blueberries are a super food and contain more antioxidants than all other consumed fruit. They contain flavonoids which studies have found reduce upper respiratory infections by 33 percent.
Plants That Boost Your Immune System: Echinacea
Although you will probably not be able to use it directly from your garden, Echinacea is a beautiful perennial that will add stunning color to your landscape. It is also a great plant for pollinators. Echinacea is usually taken as a capsule but is also found in some teas. Taken orally, Echinacea stimulates the functions of a variety of immune cells. This can speed recovery by stimulating the immune system to respond faster and better.
Plants That Boost Your Immune System: Ginger
Ginger contains nearly a dozen antiviral compounds, some of which are very effective against common-cold causing viruses. Supplements containing are widely available but why not include it in stir-fry, pickle it, or brew teas that contain it.
Plants That Boost Your Immune System: Spinach
What’s good for Popeye is probably good for the rest of us!
Spinach is packed with a healthy dose of vitamin C which helps colds, flu, and strengthens the immune system in general. It also contains high levels of beta-carotene and antioxidants which help are immune system fight off viruses. Spinach is most effective when eaten raw. How about a spinach salad for lunch?
Plants That Boost Your Immune System: Houseplants
No, do not eat your Spider Plant. Houseplants are in this list because of their ability to scrub the air in our homes and offices, the places we spend most of our time. Plants remove all kinds of pollutants and allergens just by sitting there looking pretty. Healthier air equals healthier people!
Plants That Boost Your Immune System: Mushrooms
Mushrooms have long been used in Eastern medicine for its health and curative benefits and there are good reason for this. Mushrooms are high in selenium and vitamin B, which are important for keeping the immune system in top form. While all mushrooms offer benefits, shiitake, maitake, oyster, lion’s mane, and turkey tail mushrooms have the highest immune benefits.
