5 effective ayurvedic immune-boosting herbs

Here are 5 popular and effective herbs that Ayurveda has used for thousands of years to boost the immune system. The immune-boosting effects of these herbs are backed by research, and if you want to try them, you can buy them as tested dietary supplements.

How the immune system works according to Ayurveda

According to Ayurvedic medicine, the essential quality of the body's tissues, known as Ojas (vitality), is responsible for a person's overall health, well-being, intelligence, body defences and thought processes. According to the Ayurvedic concept of the immune system (Vyadhikshamatva in Sanskrit), the body's resistance is essential not only for the prevention of disease but also for rapid recovery from illness.

The Indian Pharmacopoeia and ayurvedic texts present herbs that enhance vitality and immunity and can be particularly useful in improving the functioning of our immune system. The immune-boosting properties of these herbs have been proven by modern research. Learn about the 5 most powerful ayurvedic immune-boosting herbs below and boost your own and your family's immunity naturally and effectively!

The 5 best known ayurvedic immune-boosting herbs

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Indian Ginseng

Ashwagandha is one of the most widely used adaptogenic herbs in ayurvedic medicine and has many positive health benefits. Ashwagandha is known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety by modulating the body's response to stress by regulating cortisol levels. It helps to reduce stress and anxiety, improve cognitive function and create a better quality of sleep.

Ashwagandha supports the immune system through its powerful antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from oxidative stress (the damaging effects of free radicals), thus strengthening the body's natural defences. Research shows that Ashwagandha boosts the activity of immune cells such as natural killer cells, helping to strengthen the immune response to infection and disease. Indian ginseng may also help reduce inflammation.

2. Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra), liquorice root

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as liquorice, has a number of benefits for respiratory health and immune function. It has expectorant properties, helping to loosen mucus and relieve nasal congestion, making it useful for respiratory conditions such as coughs, colds and bronchitis. In addition, liquorice contains compounds (such as glycyrrhizin) that support immune function and have been shown to boost immune cell activity, contributing to more effective defence against infection and respiratory disease.

According to Ayurveda, liquorice is sweet tasting, mucilaginous and heavy, and is therefore effective in treating disorders caused by Vata dosha. Ayurveda recommends consuming liquorice powder with honey and clarified butter (ghee) to improve immunity.

3. Amla (Emblica officinalis), Indian Gooseberry

Amla fruit is perhaps one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C and is perfect for boosting overall strength and immunity. Each 100 g of Amla fruit contains 470-680 mg of natural vitamin C. It is rich in minerals (e.g. calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium), carotene, carbohydrates, thiamine and riboflavin, fibre, antioxidants (polyphenols and flavonoids). Numerous studies have shown that it can be used to increase the body's resistance and prevent infectious diseases. Amla is an excellent antioxidant, cell protecting and anti-inflammatory herb.

Garuda Ayurveda offers Amla in vegetarian capsule and ground form. Amla is also included in the immune-boosting Spirulina Plus capsule, which contains green algae, the complex immune-boosting Immune Guard capsule and Vita Jam (Chyawanprash), a well-known Ayurvedic preparation with immune-boosting and strengthening properties based on an ancient recipe.

4. Zingiber officinalis, Ginger

Ginger supports the immune system through its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Ginger contains bioactive antimicrobial compounds such as gingerol and shogaol, which have been shown to boost immune function by stimulating immune cell activity, thereby reducing the risk of infection. Ginger is recommended for the treatment of many respiratory conditions.

According to Ayurveda, ginger has a heating effect, which helps to regulate the unbalanced Vata and Kapha doshas. Ginger is very versatile: it can be eaten fresh, powdered or in oil, dried/candied or as juice/tea. Ginger powder mixed with sesame oil can be taken to relieve joint and muscle pain. Ginger is also used as part of a warm compress for gout, oedema, arthritis and other joint pains.

5. Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), holy basil

Tulsi has traditionally been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat respiratory conditions such as coughs, colds and bronchitis due to its mucolytic and expectorant properties. Its natural compounds can help loosen mucus, reduce inflammation in the airways and support respiratory health. Scientific experiments have demonstrated Tulsi's stress-relieving, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, stomach-protecting, natural antipyretic effects.  Tulsi is also particularly effective in supporting heart, liver and lung function.

Drinking freshly squeezed basil juice twice a day can help boost the immune system and protect against upper respiratory diseases. Adding a few drops of ginger and honey enhances the immune-boosting effects of Tulsi. For a concentrated effect, Tulsi is also available in vegetarian capsule form.

Let's take advantage of nature's help, and use the wide range of Ayurvedic immune boosters to reduce hay fever and other respiratory diseases and symptoms!