With Fall and the new school year upon us, it’s smart to be prepared for the upcoming challenges to our immune systems.
Here are just a few things that can weaken our immunity:
- Stress and anxiety
- Seasonal changes
- Insufficient sleep
- Exposure to pathogens and large groups of people
- Untreated allergies
- Travel
- Sudden changes in environment, such as starting a new school year
- Poor diet & exercise
Some of these stressors can’t be avoided, but fortunately there’s a lot that can be done to avoid a cold or flu this season. Decrease your chances of getting sick this Fall by following these simple tips. These tips are quick, easy, and designed for keeping your immune system your flexible, strong, and able champion.
- Take a mushroom supplement
Mushrooms are some of the best medicine available for keeping your immune system at its strongest. 1-2 capsules per day of a supplement like LifeShield Immune Support is all it takes to give you an advantage. Why are mushrooms so effective? Mushrooms and humans are susceptible to the same pathogens, but mushrooms have to work a lot harder than we do to keep from getting sick. So when we ingest mushrooms, we’re taking advantage of all the immune-boosting power they’ve cultivated for themselves. Mushrooms like Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) also have anti-inflammatory effects that can ease allergy symptoms. Thanks, shrooms!
- Keep a Goldenseal/Echinacea tincture on hand
When you find yourself in situation where your immune system is compromised, take a few swallows of a Echinacea Goldenseal Supreme tincture, just to be safe. Goldenseal and Echinacea are powerful allies for fighting off unfriendly pathogens, and a little goes a long way with these herbs. Keeping a tincture on hand is perfect for on-the-go situations. You will have to get used to the strong taste, but it’s worth it! If your sick nephew wipes his nose on you or you suspect that your hotel room is moldy, take a few squirts of Echinacea and Goldenseal, and set your mind at ease.
- Take Nettles
Nettles is a “secondary” ally for avoiding colds and infections. Nettles fights the effects of everyday allergens that would otherwise tax and weaken your immune system. Not only will Nettles help alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies, it will give your immune system a break so you’ll be ready to fight off serious colds and viruses. Nettles is so full of iron, calcium, B-vitamins, and other vitamins and minerals, that it will give you a boost of energy as well. Take 2-4 capsules throughout the day to keep your histamine levels down.
- Use an essential oil inhaler
Using an inhaler is not only therapeutic for nerves and mood, it also helps fight off respiratory infections. Essential oils such as eucalyptus, lemon, and thyme are particularly known for their anti-bacterial actions. But all essential oils are anti-microbial, so you can choose any oils that appeal to your olfactory sensibilities! Oils like Lavender, Neroli, and Ylang Ylang provide anti-pathogenic benefits while also boosting mood and energy. Can’t beat that! Stop by the shop to select your favorite variety, or make your own.
- Take a multivitamin
Taking a multivitamin covers all of your nutritional bases, so your immune system doesn’t have to cover for you; it can focus all its energy on keeping you well. Make sure your multi has sufficient levels of zinc, Vitamin C, and B complexes to give your immune system an extra boost of support.
Happy Fall!
Nicole can be reached at herbalcole@gmail.com
