Things are a bit scary right now - we're all worrying about how to sanitize and protect ourselves from illness; however, I think its equally as important to make boosting our immune system a priority so that IF we do get sick, we will be able to fight it quickly, and effectively.
Below are 5 of my favorite immunity boosting herbs that I've made a priority to nourish my family with to help keep us healthy. This is in no way a comprehensive list of all the best immune boosting herbs available to us. I simply wanted to include highly effective herbs, that most of us have in our homes or gardens and are readily available to us. Enjoy, and be well!
1. Thyme
This powerhouse of an herb is a one-stop-shop for boosting the immune system. Thyme contains properties that are antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and antispasmodic. All of that means: if you're trying not to get sick, or get over an illness, meet your new best friend.
Thyme is not only a great protector of our immune systems, it's also delicious and incredibly vers
atile. Add the fresh or dried herb (whole or minced) to soups, salads, or any meat dish.
Bonus Tip: Make a tea with it by adding fresh sprigs of thyme (or a teaspoon of dried thyme in a tea ball) to hot water and let it steep for 5-10 minutes. Sip the tea (add honey if desired), or gargle with it to help fight a sore throat.
2. Rosemary
Rosemary is as lovely of an herb as her name suggests. Highly fragrant, rosemary is great fo
r not only eating but for aromatic benefits as well. Rosemary is antibacterial, a circulatory stimulant, and a nervine - meaning it relaxes the nervous system. Not only is the herb spectacular for keeping us healthy, it helps to keep us calm as well.
I often say: where the mind goes, the body follows. We must make relieving stress, tension, and fear part of how we care for ourselves if we hope to maintain good health. Rosemary is a wonderful ally for that work.
As with thyme and the other herbs mentioned below, add rosemary to your soups, and main courses. I also love to mince rosemary and add it to breakfast potatoes. Making a tea with thyme and rosemary is one of my favorite immunity boosting techniques.
Rosemary is also a favorable essential oil as well. Affordable and easy to blend, utilizing rosemary in herb and essential oil form will give you even more options for embracing her power.
3. Oregano
Much like thyme, oregano packs a powerful immunity boosting punch. It too contains antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant benefits. Oregano is also a nervine, supporting stress and anxiety relief.
Oregano is one of the easiest herbs to come by, especially in dried form, and a delicious companion to many dishes.
One of the best things about thyme, rosemary, and oregano is how easy they are to grow! I have several of these plants growing around my house. There's something so empowering about going out to the garden, thanking the plants for lending their healing properties to my family, and cutting a few fresh sprigs of each plant to add to our meal.
4. Sage
Sage's latin name, "Salvia," means "healthy and whole." Sage is one of the ultimate immune boosting herbs, and a culinary delight.
Containing antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and nervine properties (among many others), sage is also helpful with getting a good night's sleep.
Pairing beautifully with poultry dishes, this herb will serve you in taste and good health.
5. Ginger
Containing all previously mentioned properties, and a well known antidote for many cold and flu symptoms, ginger is a must-have for any household.
Adding ginger to soups is an easy and delicious way to receive the benefits it has to offer. Personally, I prefer to consume ginger in tea form. Its warming and soothing as it relieves upset stomach, aches and pains, and promotes circulation. Its also helpful for promoting sweating (a detoxification of the body) to rid virus and infection. I often add ginger tea to my kids' bath when they have a fever to help them sweat out the illness without increasing their body's temperature.
-BONUS Herb -
6. Chamomile
While chamomile contains antibacateral and anti-inflammatory properties, the reason this
herb has made this list of must-haves is because of its ability to relieves stress, anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and restlessness. In uncertain times, this is exactly what we need.
Chamomile tea is very easy to come by. After you've enjoyed your dinner infused with thyme, rosemary, sage, and oregano, relax on the couch with a cup of hot chamomile tea. Allow your fears and stresses of
the day to melt away for the remained of the day. Slip into relaxation, and let a restful night's sleep continue to nourish and fortify your physical and mental health.
Sending you healthy thoughts, and lots of love.
~ Robin
