When you get sick, it really puts a knot in your plans. You essentially have to cancel or reschedule your life until your body feels better. This is why it’s so important to have a strong immune system. So in this post, I want to talk about how to boost your immune system with a little plant called Astragalus.
What Happens When You Have a Weak Immune System
We don’t pay enough attention to supporting our immune system. It’s such an important factor in living a healthy life.
Your body’s ability to defend itself against infections and diseases is compromised when you have a weak immune system. The immune system is responsible for identifying and destroying harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It also plays a role in recognizing and eliminating abnormal cells, including cancer cells.
Having a weak immune system can happen for many reasons, like genetic conditions, medical treatments, underlying health conditions, and lifestyle choices.
Here are some of the consequences of a weak immune system…
Increased susceptibility to infections
A weakened immune system makes you more vulnerable to infections, and you may experience more frequent and severe illnesses. Common infections, like the common cold, flu, pneumonia, and skin infections, may become more difficult to combat.
Longer recovery time
With a weakened immune system, your body may take longer to recover from infections and illnesses. The immune response is crucial in fighting off pathogens and initiating the healing process. A weakened immune system can prolong the recovery period.
Opportunistic infections
Certain infections, known as opportunistic infections, can occur more frequently in individuals with weakened immune systems. These infections are caused by organisms that usually do not cause severe illness in people with healthy immune systems but can cause significant harm in those with compromised immunity. Examples include tuberculosis, pneumonia caused by fungi or certain bacteria, and infections caused by the herpes virus.
Increased risk of severe complications
Weakened immune systems can lead to a higher risk of developing severe complications from infections. For example, a simple respiratory infection may progress to pneumonia or respiratory failure. Infections that are typically mild in healthy individuals can become life-threatening in those with compromised immunity.
Difficulty in fighting cancer cells
The immune system plays a crucial role in identifying and eliminating abnormal cells, like cancer cells. A weak immune system may have difficulty recognizing and destroying cancer cells, which can contribute to the development and progression of cancer.
Autoimmune disorders
In some cases, a weak immune system can lead to the development of autoimmune disorders. These are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues in the body. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis.
What Is Astragalus?
Fortunately, there are natural options for supporting and boosting your immune system. One of the best options is a plant called Astragalus.
Astragalus, also known as Astragalus membranaceus, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the legume family Fabaceae. It’s native to China, Mongolia, and Korea, and has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine.
The root of the astragalus plant is primarily used for medicinal purposes. It has several active compounds, like polysaccharides, flavonoids, saponins, and triterpenes, which all have major health benefits.
This is an adaptogenic herb, meaning it helps the body adapt to various stressors and promote balance. It’s been traditionally used to boost the immune system and improve overall vitality.
How Astragalus Can Boost Your Immune System
As we already stated, Astragalus has immune-boosting properties, and it’s commonly used this way in traditional medicine.
But more specifically, here are the ways in which Astragalus can boost your immune system…
Stimulating immune cell activity
Astragalus can enhance the activity of immune cells, including T-cells, B-cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages. These cells play vital roles in identifying and destroying pathogens, infected cells, and abnormal cells in the body.
Increasing antibody production
Astragalus helps promote the production of antibodies, which are proteins produced by B-cells to help neutralize and eliminate pathogens. By increasing antibody production, astragalus may enhance the body's ability to recognize and fight off infections.
Supporting cytokine production
Cytokines are signaling molecules that regulate immune responses. Astragalus has been shown to help modulate the production of cytokines, including interleukins, interferons, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), which can play important roles in promoting immune system function.
Enhancing immune response to viruses
Some research suggests that astragalus has antiviral properties and can help enhance the immune response to viral infections. It can help inhibit viral replication and stimulate the production of interferons, which are important molecules involved in the body's defense against viruses.
Protecting against oxidative stress
This plant contains antioxidant compounds that can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. By reducing oxidative stress, astragalus may help support immune function, as excessive oxidative stress can impair immune responses.
Other Health Benefits of Astragalus
On top of supporting and boosting your immune system, Astragalus has many other health benefits.
Adaptogenic properties
Astragalus is an adaptogenic herb, which means it may help the body adapt to and cope with stressors, both physical and emotional. It helps support overall vitality and promotes a sense of well-being.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Astragalus has been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is associated with various chronic conditions, like arthritis, heart disease, and certain autoimmune disorders.
Heart health
Astragalus has been traditionally used to support cardiovascular health. It can help improve blood flow and circulation, reduce blood pressure, and protect against certain heart-related conditions. Some studies have shown positive effects of astragalus on heart health markers, including cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Antioxidant activity
Astragalus contains antioxidant compounds that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer.
Anti-aging effects
Astragalus has been associated with anti-aging properties. Its antioxidant effects, along with potential benefits on cellular function and stress response, contribute to its role in promoting longevity and overall health as individuals age.
Blood sugar regulation
Some research suggests that astragalus can have a positive impact on blood sugar regulation. It helps improve insulin sensitivity, enhance glucose metabolism, and protect pancreatic beta cells, potentially aiding in the management of diabetes.
Liver protection
Astragalus has hepatoprotective effects, meaning it helps protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, alcohol, and certain medications. This means it supports liver function and promotes liver health.
Where To Find Astragalus
Because Astragalus is native to China, Mongolia, and Korea, it can be difficult to find. And even if you do get ahold of it, it may not be a good idea to just eat it. You wouldn’t know how much to take or in what form it’s most effective.
That’s why Soul Drops has extracted the parts of the Astragalus plant that will give you the most powerful health benefits.
We’ve put it in two of our tonics: Reishi Tonic and Cordyceps Tonic.
These two tonics, thanks in part to Astragalus, can help you:
- Have more stamina and endurance
- Feel energized
- Fight the symptoms of aging
- Improve your sexual health
- Sleep better
- Curb the effects of depression and anxiety
- Boost your immune system!
And you can actually get both of these tonics in the Biohacker Set, which also includes the brain-boosting power of Lion’s Mane Tonic.
