Elderberry, Echinacea, and Arabinogalactan

These days, it’s more important than ever to be taking steps to boost our immune systems to keep healthy. In the never-ending search for the right foods, vitamins, and supplements, it can be overwhelming to come across terms you’ve never even heard of. Much less be able to pronounce with a straight face. There’s a mile-long list of natural remedies out there, but there are three immunity boosters you should really keep in mind: elderberry, echinacea, and arabinogalactan.

 

These three in particular are known for having potent immune-boosting effects on the human body. Naturally found in North America, elderberry, echinacea, and arabinogalactan are three ingredients that have been used to treat a wide range of illnesses.

 

Elderberry – What it is and How to Use It

Grown in regions across North America, Asia, Europe, and North Africa, the elderberry plant grows clusters of small dark purple berries that are filled with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Used in many desserts and drinks, the berries and leaves are thoroughly cooked to remove any potentially harmful elements that may negatively affect the human body.

As a natural herbal remedy, elderberry can be taken as a steeped tea, syrup, powder, or capsule. Other benefits include:

• High in vitamin C
• Rich in flavonoids
• High in antioxidants
• Many antiviral properties

Often used to treat symptoms of cold and flu, elderberries might also be beneficial for reducing the effects of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, certain types of cancers, and HIV. 

 

Possible Side Effects

Although naturally grown and made into medicine without other additives, elderberries have been known to have some side effects for anyone with allergies or who take medications.

The side effects could include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Rash
• Hives
• Numbness
• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea

Echinacea – What it is and How to Use It

Native to North America, echinacea is a purple coneflower that belongs to the daisy family. Commonly used to make tea, herbal supplements, and extracts, the flower and roots are both used to treat a variety of issues that include reducing inflammation, soothing sore throats, boost the immune system, lower blood sugar levels, and reduce stress.

Other benefits include:

• High in antioxidants
• Rich in flavonoids
• High in cichoric acid
• High in rosmarinic acid

Although there is not enough evidence to confirm its effectiveness, other possible treatments include skin conditions and certain types of cancer.

 

Possible Side Effects

As with any new treatment, it’s important to consult a physician before taking natural remedies with echinacea. This is especially important for anyone with allergies or currently using other medications.

The side effects could include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Upset Stomach
• Hives
• Rash
• Swelling
• Shortness of Breath

Arabinogalactan – What it is and How to Use It

Native to the northern parts of the northern hemisphere, arabinogalactan is a fiber mainly found in the Larch tree, which is often grown in cooler regions with boreal forests. Used for centuries to help treat a variety of illnesses, it’s mainly known for being a strong anti-inflammatory, a benefit for healthy digestion and weight loss.

Other benefits include:

• High in fiber
• Powerful prebiotic
• Antiviral properties
• Many antimicrobial properties

Although there is more to study about the positive effects of arabinogalactan, it has been used to help treat symptoms associated with asthma, colds, flu, H1N1, ear infections, hepatitis C, liver disease, HIV, and some types of cancers.

 

Possible Side Effects

Relatively mild on the body with few serious side effects, a physician should still be consulted for anyone who has severe allergies or who currently takes medications. 

The side effects could include:

• Bloating
• Upset stomach
• Cramps
• Flatulence
• Diarrhea
• Headaches

The next time your body is in need of a health boost, remember these three incredible ingredients for a quick and natural way to increase the effectiveness of your immune system.