Best Vitamins, Herbs, And Minerals For Your Immune System That You Did Not Know You Were Missing

We all know the popular saying "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." However, what you probably didn't know was that you could be missing out on important vitamins and minerals that could boost your immune system to have you in tip-top shape all year round, not just for "Flu season"!

When most of us think about vitamins as it relates to our health, we usually tend to lean towards an easy, convenient solution. This solution normally comes in the form of a simple standard multivitamin. Now that we have our multivitamin we're all set and ready to go! Right? Actually, the answer is surprisingly no! You see by just taking a standard multivitamin we are usually not getting the full benefit of the naturally occurring nutrients, enzymes, and cofactors that work in conjunction with vitamins from wholefoods that are found in nature.

Understandably though, most of us don't have access to every single one of the necessary superfoods, vegetables, and fruits needed to optimally sustain our immune systems especially due to GMO's pesticides, herbicides, etc. usually found in our local store's fruit and veggie section.

The following items listed below are crucial for your immune health and will help to prevent common illnesses.

1. Zinc

 Zinc is an essential trace element that is crucial for overall health. As per the research conducted by Carmen P. Wong of Oregon State University, zinc is also a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Zinc is absolutely essential for optimal immune functioning and stimulates these immune cells so that we can fight off and even prevent infections.

Watch this video to know more about the benefits of zinc:

2. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is actually a hormone that is needed for many different functions within the body but did you know that it helps the body to prevent and fight off illnesses too! Amazing right?  Research suggests that without enough vitamin D in the body, our cells can become weak and less efficient in fighting off illnesses such as cold and flu, so we must always have plenty on hand. 

Here is the video that explains, what Vitamin D does to the immune system:

3. Camu Camu

Camu Camu is a berry that is grown in tropical regions that are not very well known in the US. This natural source of vitamin C boasts many benefits. Based on the research conducted by Nutritionist Julie Upton, Camu Camu powder contains around 750% daily value of vitamin C in just one teaspoon. If this isn't enough to convince you to stock up on this powerful fruit then I don't know what will!

Take a look at the Benefits of Camu Camu in this video:

4. Acerola

Acerola cherry is a hidden treasure that is also not very well known. This sweet yet tart flavored cherry contains almost as much vitamin C as Camu Camu. Based on research, Acerola Cherry contains 30x more vitamin C than oranges and is better for your body than ascorbic acid. This cherry is packed with antioxidants and immune-boosting properties that are sure to keep illnesses at bay.

Learn more about Acerola Cherry in this video:

5. Echinacea

Echinacea Is a plant that we definitely want to use if we feel a cold coming on. Based on research conducted by Nutritionist Nancy Ling, Echinacea is promoted as a dietary supplement for the common cold and other infections including respiratory tract infections. Echinacea has been said to have powerful immune-boosting properties. Who wouldn't want to get their hands on this?

You can see more benefits of Echinacea by watching this video:

6. Lemon

Lemon has a great amount of vitamin C and has antibacterial and antiviral properties making it a staple in our diets. As per the research conducted by dietician Kathy Warwick, Lemon promotes immunity as well as fights off infections.

Watch this video to see how lemon can boost the immune system:

7. Cinnamon

As per the research conducted by Dr. John Axe, Ceylon Cinnamon has been shown to not only prevent and shrink tumors and cancer in the body but is also a very powerful antibacterial, antiviral, making it a great choice for the treatment of many viruses and infections. Cinnamon is definitely one of my personal favorites as it gets rid of many illnesses for me very quickly.

Watch the video to find out more about the health benefits of Cinnamon:

8. Honey

Honey, specifically Manuka Honey is one of the most powerful antibacterials and antiviral home remedies are known to man. Not only is honey delicious, but according to research conducted by the World Health Organization, it can help to get rid of mucus, soothe asthma symptoms, coughing, and lung irritation as well as reduce inflammation in the body. You don't want to miss out on this sweet treat this winter. 

See more about Honey by clicking the video:

9. Elderberry

The berries and flowers of elderberry are loaded with antioxidants which have been said to provide powerful relief of cold and flu symptoms. Elderberry tea is very delicious and is one of my favorites as it provides fast relief from sinus and cold symptoms. As per the research conducted by Hawkins J, Baker, C, Cherry L, and Dunne E, Elderberry has also shown promising results in the treatment of upper respiratory viruses.

Watch this video to learn more about the amazing benefits of Elderberry:

10. Licorice

Licorice is another powerful herb. As per the research conducted by numerous phytotherapy researchers, Licorice is effective in treating symptoms of colds and upper respiratory infections as well as the SARS virus and HIV. It has potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Do not let the look of licorice fool you. You definitely won't want to skip out on it!

Learn more about the benefits of Licorice Root from the video below:

11. Olive leaf

As per the research conducted by Dr. Morton Walker, Olive leaf is an extremely powerful natural antibiotic. This is a potent antibacterial treatment that not only helps to treat general illnesses but is also extremely detoxifying and can heal the body as it is packed with polyphenols which have a wide host of benefits. This is one powerful herb that you must not forget to keep on hand.

See why it is so important to have Olive Leaf in your diet by clicking below:

12. Black Garlic

You may have heard that garlic was a powerhouse superfood when it comes to immune health but have you heard of black garlic? I thought not! As per the research conducted by Dr. John Axe, Black garlic contains all of the benefits of regular garlic including antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties only twice as potent! Black garlic is aged so that it contains a higher amount of antioxidants making it a perfect addition to the medicine cabinet.

Here are more benefits of Black Garlic, click below to watch:

13. Turmeric

Turmeric is not only an amazing addition to the kitchen but it can also be added to your list of powerful immune-boosting herbs as well. As per the research conducted by Ganesh Chandra Jagetia and Bharat B Aggarwal, Turmeric contains curcumin which is a potent anti-inflammatory and has been shown to boost the immune system, reduce free radicals, reduce cancer risk and even lower blood pressure!

Learn more about the importance of Turmeric by clicking this video:

As you can see, adding these crucial elements is vital for immune health. Boost your immunity by incorporating the above-mentioned items and you will be on your way to healthy living.