Ancient herbs used to boost immunity

White blood cells (WBCs or leukocytes), are the defensive frontline of the immune system. WBCs are created in bone marrow, the spongy tissue at the center of large bones. There are five distinct types of WBC’s that have been identified. Neutrophils are considered the first responders of the immune system and are the most abundant. Studies have shown that a lower neutrophil count correlates to a great risk of infection and greater severity of infection.

An underlying disease is generally the culprit when blood tests show a low WBC count. Leukopenia is the term used with chronically low white blood cell counts. Common disease conditions which cause leukopenia include: autoimmune disorders, various types of infections, congenital disorders, immunodeficiency disorders, infections that affect bone marrow function, Leukemia, and conventional cancer treatments. Some of the drugs which may cause low WBCs include antibiotics, diuretics, chemotherapy, and antihistamines.

There are two herbs used historically that provide natural, non-harmful ways you can assist your body in replenishing its supply of white blood cells. These are Cat’s Claw and Astragalus.

Cat’s Claw comes from a vine indigenous to Amazonian rain forests in South and Central America. The bark and root have been used for 2,000 years to treat a wide range of health conditions, including chronic inflammatory disorders, bacterial and fungal infections, arthritis, dysentery, fevers, stomach ulcers and various gastrointestinal issues. Cat’s Claw also acts as an adaptogen by helping the immune system adapt to stress by regulating WBC production and performance.

Astragalus root has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a Qi tonic for over two thousand years. Today it is typically classified as an adaptogen and immune-stimulant. A Qi tonic boosts the body’s energy levels and overall metabolic functions.

Research published in a 1981 study revealed that Astragalus increases B-lymphocyte and T-lymphocyte levels, interleukin and antibody production. Additionally, the University of Texas found that Astragalus enhanced the immune system’s ability to identify bacteria, viruses, and even cancer cells. The American Cancer Society demonstrated that cancer patients who took Astragalus concurrently with radiation and chemotherapy had faster recovery times and lived longer. In fact, after only two weeks of use, white blood cells increased significantly.

For more information, contact Wendy at haydenhealth@gmail.com.