Cells of the innate immune system include mast cells and natural killer cells, the phagocytes (monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells), and the granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils). Each cell type is equipped with different mechanisms that allow it to attack and eliminate pathogens from the body. The innate immune cells demonstrate the immune system’s versatility.
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It’s that time of year again where virus’ and bacteria’s run a-muck and play havoc on our bodies. The best time to start is now to prepare for the cold and flu season.
There is no magic bullet in creating a healthy immune system. The best place to start is eliminating junk foods and beverages from the diet. Adequate rest and moderate exercise are also important.
There are certain supplements that are known for preventing sickness or taken during sickness to speed up recovery. Some of these are echinacea, goldenseal, elderberry, ginseng, astragalus, mullein leaves, yerba santa leaves, parthenium root, capsicum fruit, yarrow, pau d’arco bark, and colloidal or ionized silver.
There are much immune building multiple’s that contain many of the supplements mentioned above. The trick is to start taking 2 a day in September and continue till spring. Those with severely compromised immune systems may need more. There are homeopathic that are popular this time of year such as, Oscillococcinum. It is nature's # 1 flu medicine. Silver water is a natural antibiotic. Wild Mediterranean oregano oil is famous for knocking out viruses, bacteria, and fungus.
60% of our immune system is in our “gut”, therefore it is important to maintain an adequate amount of “friendly bacteria”. Most people supplement with acidophilus and bifidophilus to achieve this, for the typical American diet, antibiotics, and other prescription medications destroy these good bacteria.
Essential oils can also be used to enhance immunity. A disinfecting room mist can be made by taking a glass 4 oz. glass bottle with a sprayer and adding a total of 90 drops of each; rosemary, tea tree and peppermint essential oils and fill the rest with spring or distilled water. Shake 100 times and let it sit for 24 hrs before use.
It does take a substantial effort to build immunity and achieve optimum health but….you and your family are worth it!!!
In closing, I would suggest to anyone that you take your time, do your research, analyze your health status or needs, and then find the natural products to meet your needs. It something you can do for yourself, which leaves you with a very good understanding of your health care needs. Many people go through life relying solely on other people when it comes to their nutrition or health care needs. There are many good articles on the web, which can be very helpful and informative to you.
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