While thyme is now used as a food flavoring, it has actually been used for centuries. Ancient Egyptians used it for medical properties. While there’s only been preliminary testing, studies show that thyme contains thymol, which may neutralize bacterial, parasitic, fungal, or viral infections.

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Mushroom coffees and teas have become increasingly popular within recent years. A common star of these concoctions is the powerful chaga mushroom, which has one of the highest ORAC scores of any food. The higher the ORAC value, the better a food’s ability is to protect the body from free radicals. That also means that chaga mushrooms are one of the best sources of antioxidants.

What Is The Chaga Mushroom?

The chaga mushroom is quite ugly in appearance, but don’t let looks sway you from this nutritional powerhouse. These mushrooms grow in wild places like Northern Canada, Siberia, and Alaska. They mainly grow on the outside of birch trees in very cold climates, but they also grow on chestnut, beech, and alder trees. Because of their distinct appearance, chaga mushrooms are very easy to identify. They are lumpy and the exterior looks like burnt charcoal with a softer, yellowish, squishy core. 

For hundreds of years, Northern European countries have incorporated chaga mushrooms into traditional medicine. Historical accounts state that chaga mushrooms were used to treat diabetes and gastrointestinal cancer in those aforementioned areas of the world. Like other medicinal mushrooms, chaga mushrooms require the introduction of hot water or alcohol to break down the tough cellular walls. In doing so, the mushroom’s benefits become available for human consumption. Continue reading to learn about some amazing health benefits of chaga mushrooms. 

May Prevent And Treat Cancer

There are many impressive testimonials about people using medicinal mushrooms, including chaga mushrooms, to help them beat cancer. Laboratory studies show that chaga mushrooms can inhibit cancer progression, but not enough human studies exist yet. In one study, researchers observed tumor-bearing mice that were given chaga mushroom extract. The results indicated a 60% reduction in tumor size, while mice with metastatic cancer experienced a 25% reduction in their number of nodules. One study looked at chaga mushroom’s effects on cancerous human liver cells. The study found that chaga extract may be able to prevent liver cancer cell growth. 

May Lower Blood Sugar

A few different animal studies linked chaga mushroom to lower blood sugar levels, so it may be beneficial for those with diabetes. In one study observing diabetic mice, chaga supplementation led to a 31% decrease in blood sugar levels over the course of three weeks. Another study in obese, diabetic mice found that chaga extract aided blood sugar reduction and insulin resistance, compared to the diabetic mice that didn’t receive the supplement. Because human research is currently unavailable, it is not yet clear whether or not chaga can manage blood sugar levels in diabetic humans. 

Exhibits Potent Antiviral Activity

Chaga mushroom appears to exhibit antiviral properties against several viruses. Research from 2015 found that chaga extract had an antiviral effect on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1. In several animal studies, chaga extract exhibited antiviral effects against the hepatitis C virus. By examining animal cells, researchers found that chaga was able to decrease the infective properties of hepatitis C by 100-fold in just 10 minutes. As of right now, it looks like this mushroom may be a worthy candidate to rival antiviral drugs, but more research is necessary. 

May Reduce Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural immune response that can help protect the body from infection and disease. Long-term or chronic inflammation, however, has been linked to rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, and other serious conditions. Several animal test-tube studies suggest that chug extract can positively impact immunity by reducing long-term inflammation. One animal study found that chaga extract was able to reduce inflammation from ulcerative colitis in animal subjects. This anti-inflammatory effect in the colon was due to chaga extract’s ability to suppress the expression of chemical mediators of inflammation. 

Stimulates The Immune System

Chaga mushroom extract works to promote the formation of beneficial cytokines, which are specialized proteins that regulate the immune system. In doing so, chaga ultimately stimulates the production of white blood cells, which you need to fight off viruses and bacteria. Other animal and test-tube studies note that chaga can prevent the production of harmful cytokines that can trigger inflammation. In some animal studies, researchers observed that chaga extract boosted immune function by increasing the production of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and T lymphocytes, two types of immune cells. Other research found that chaga extracts can stimulate spleen lymphocytes, which positively affect the immune system.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there are up to one million cases of shingles in the United States every year. About one in three people in the United States will develop shingles at some point in their lifetime. Shingles refers to the reactivation of the dormant herpes varicella zoster virus (chickenpox) after childhood. Various illnesses, aging, trauma, and stress can all activate the virus. 

If you had chickenpox as a child, the shingles virus remains dormant in the body. It can reactivate later in life in the form of the shingles rash, which can occur on any part of the body, but it typically affects small sections. When the virus begins, you may notice pain and itching in the skin before the signature rash appears one or two days later. Typically, small, water-filled blisters accompany the rash. Those blisters eventually rupture, scar, and fade over a few weeks. That process, however, can be very uncomfortable and painful. Other potential symptoms of shingles can include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Chills

If you think you have shingles, it’s best to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible, especially if it’s on your face or near the eyes. While there isn’t a cure for shingles, doctors often prescribe antiviral medication to help accelerate recovery and reduce the duration of symptoms. Although an antiviral treatment is very effective, the following home remedies may be able to reduce pain and discomfort. 

Oatmeal Or Baking Soda Baths

The best way to help reduce the pain and severity of shingles is to care for your skin safely as it heals. Soaking in an oatmeal or baking soda bath can soothe the skin if you have a shingles rash. These popular home remedies can help relieve itching, according to doctors. Look for colloidal (or ground) oatmeal or baking soda and add either of those ingredients to cool bath water. Both ingredients work to calm itching and are gentle on the skin. Grinding oat grain into a fine powder makes up colloidal oatmeal, which soothes the skin because it contains beneficial proteins, fats, minerals, and other nutrients. 

Cold Compresses

Applying a cool cloth or compress against the site of the rash may relieve itchiness and reduce inflammation. Lightly soak a natural cotton cloth or towel in cool water and wring it out before you put it on the sore area. Repeat this process as necessary. One thing to remember is that you do not want to expose the skin to extreme temperatures. Avoid the use of ice baths or very hot water. Hot water can increase blood flow and slow down the healing of sores, whereas ice increases skin sensitivity.

Calamine Lotion

Calamine lotion is an over-the-counter, topical, pink lotion that is commonly used to treat mild itchiness, pain, and discomfort. This is a very important note: do not apply calamine lotion to active blisters. The reason for this is because you do not want to cause infection. Only apply calamine lotion once the skin forms scabs over the blisters. That may help soothe the discomfort you feel and reduce the urge to itch your skin, according to dermatologists. 

Modify Your Diet

A healthy diet is integral for helping the body’s systems and organs function optimally. It is best to include a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains in your diet to vary your nutritional intake. People with shingles should aim to eat more orange, red, and green foods because they contain carotenoids. This group of antioxidants includes zeaxanthin, lutein, lycopene, and provitamin A, all of which work to enhance immune function. Try to eat more carrots, squash, pumpkin, watermelon, red bell pepper, grapefruit, tomatoes, kale, parsley, spinach, melon, lettuce, and other leafy greens. 

Vaseline

Covering the rash with a thin layer of Vaseline and then a large cotton bandage protects the skin from clothing and other irritants. Speaking of clothing, stick to loose, cotton clothes, especially when you’re on the mend, as that material eases the discomfort. By protecting your rash with Vaseline and a cotton bandage, you help keep others safe. Shingles is very contagious only while rash blisters appear. When using Vaseline, try to use a plain, unscented variety to avoid irritation.

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Is it possible to improve the immune system? This can seem like an impossible feat, especially if you regularly get sick. The immune system does an excellent job at fighting off harmful bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms, but it fails on occasion. While there isn’t a magic supplement that makes sickness go away, there are things you can do and foods you can eat to help optimize immune function.

What Is The Immune System?

The immune system is a protective network of organs, proteins, and white blood cells that help protect the body from foreign substances. Upon coming in contact with substances like viruses, bacteria, pathogens, or fungi, the immune system works to neutralize and remove them from the body. The immune system works nonstop to protect the body, even if you don’t notice it. You only notice when the immune system is compromised because you fall ill. If the immune system is under-active, you may be at a higher risk for developing severe infections and tumors of immunodeficiency. An overactive immune system can result in allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases. 

We want to clarify that you cannot boost immune function overnight. The goal is to strengthen your immune system’s response with various lifestyle changes and through the use of immune-boosting foods, herbs, and supplements, which we detail below. 

Astragalus Root

Astragalus is in the bean and legume family and has a long history of use in herbal medicine. People have used it to help fight diseases and improve immune function. Astragalus root has been used as an adaptogen in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. A recent review found that astragalus-based treatment significantly improved toxicity induced by drugs, including cancer therapies and immunosuppressants. The extract of the root may also protect the body from gastrointestinal inflammation. 

Ginger

Before recorded history, Ayurveda practitioners relied heavily on ginger’s immune boosting abilities. The belief is that ginger breaks down accumulated toxins in the body’s organs because it has a warming effect. Ginger root exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties that help the immune system fend off bacteria and viruses. It may even treat inflammatory disorders caused by infectious agents like viruses, pathogens, and bacteria.

Elderberries

Both the berries and flowers of the elderberry plant have been used for thousands of years in herbal remedies. Even Hippocrates, the “Father of Medicine,” understood that elderberry was necessary for optimal immune function. He used elderberry because it helped fight off colds, flu symptoms, allergies, and inflammation. Elderberries are naturally rich in vitamin C, flavonols, and anthocyanins, all of which exhibit antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. One study found that elderberry extract was able to reduce the duration of the flu in people who consumed it within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Turmeric

This bright, yellowish orange spice is a key ingredient in many cuisines around the world. It also has a place in alternative remedies, exhibiting powerful anti-inflammatory and potential anti-cancer properties. Consuming turmeric may help reduce chronic inflammation, which increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Recent studies found that turmeric boosts immune activity in human cells. Consume turmeric with a little black pepper because the piperine in black pepper increases the bioavailability of turmeric. 

Probiotics

The gut can influence immune function, so optimizing gut health can benefit the immune system. Probiotics are healthy bacteria that help the body digest nutrients that encourage the detoxification of the colon. Research indicates that probiotic organisms may induce different cytokine responses in the body. Supplementing with probiotics in infancy may help prevent immune-related diseases in childhood because probiotics improve gut mucosal immune system. 

Zinc

This mineral exists in a variety of different foods (learn more about them here), but you can also consume it in the form of a supplement. Zinc encourages the body to produce more immune cells and may help reduce the severity and duration of infections. In fact, short-term use of zinc supplements has been shown to reduce the duration of viral colds in adults. Researchers identified that mild zinc deficiency may lower immune activity, but taking too much zinc can also weaken immune function. For that reason, consult with your doctor if you choose to take a zinc supplement. 

Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of autoimmune disorders and susceptibility to infection. Research indicates that vitamin D works to promote protective immunity and maintain immune tolerance. One study that involved 19,000 participants showed that people with lower vitamin D levels were more likely to report upper respiratory tract infection than people with sufficient levels. The body can produce vitamin D via UVB spectrum sunlight absorption, but you can also find it in  a minimal amount of food sources and supplements. 

Green Tea

Several studies evaluated the green tea’s antioxidant profile and whether or not it has immunomodulatory properties. Green tea works as an antifungal and antiviral agent, so it may be beneficial for immunocompromised patients. Green tea also contains Epigallocatechin (EGCG), which is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Not only does this catechin work to enhance immune function, but it may also regulate blood sugar and encourage weight loss.

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Yeast has played a role in the human diet for thousands of years. It is a fungus that is vital for making bread, beer, and numerous other foods. In recent years, people have focused on a specific type of yeast called nutritional yeast, especially vegans. The nutritional content may help boost energy levels, enhance immune function, and protect from cellular damage that leads to disease. 

What Is Nutritional Yeast?

Nutritional yeast comes from the Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast species. Brewers yeast, which some people use interchangeably with nutritional yeast, is not the same thing, although it is similar. Manufacturers can grow nutritional yeast in numerous sources, including sugar beets, blackstrap molasses, and whey. It is typically gluten-free and always dairy-free, but it offers a cheesy flavor, so vegans often use it as a cheese replacement, or to achieve maximum cheesiness. It provides a long list of vitamins, minerals, and protein, and one-quarter cup of nutritional yeast has the following nutritional profile:

• Calories: 60
• Fiber: 3 grams (g)
• Protein: 8 g
• Thiamine (vitamin B1): 11.85 milligrams (mg)
• Vitamin B6: 5.9 mg
• Vitamin B2: 9.7 mg
• Vitamin B12: 17.6 micrograms (mcg)

Great Source Of Vitamin B12

One of the biggest concerns for people following a vegan diet is that they don’t get enough vitamin B12. This vitamin is crucial to keeping nerve cells and your blood healthy. Vitamin B12 works to make DNA and prevent megaloblastic anemia, a blood condition that causes weakness and fatigue. For vegans, the most reliable source of vitamin B12 is nutritional yeast, or a B12 supplement. A mere two teaspoons of nutritional yeast satisfies 313% of the daily value (DV) of vitamin B12. 

Holds Antiviral And Antibacterial Properties

According to Dr. Seymour Pomper, a yeast expert, nutritional yeast is the fourth most prescribed herbal mono-preparation in Germany. The reason for this is because it exhibits impressive antiviral and antibacterial activity. Dr. Pomper notes that ginkgo biloba, horse chestnut, and St. John’s wort are consumed in higher amounts, though. Nutritional yeast has not been associated with the Candida albicans strain, which is related to yeast infections. That is why it may help relieve chronic symptoms of candida. It may also minimize the effects of E. coli, salmonella, and staphylococcus infections. 

Supports Healthy Pregnancy

In addition to the impressive vitamin B12 content, nutritional yeast also contains other B vitamins, including riboflavin, thiamine, folate, and vitamin B6. While these vitamins work to encourage healthy nerve function and cell metabolism, they also ensure a healthy pregnancy. Folate is especially important for a healthy pregnancy, as it helps reduce the risk of birth defects by optimizing fetal growth and development. In fact, several studies show that low folate levels during pregnancy were linked to preterm delivery, low birth weight, and neural tube defects. 

May Boost Immune Health

Nutritional yeast contains alpha mannan and beta glucan, two important carbohydrates that may offer antifungal and antibacterial properties. Animal studies confirm these findings, but more human research is necessary to determine if they may safeguard your body from infections. Beta glucan works by activating immune cells and targeting the gut microbiome to support immunity. 

Helps Lower Cholesterol Levels

An eight-week study observed men with high cholesterol to see if nutritional yeast could help lower total cholesterol. Participants took 15 mg of yeast derived beta glucan daily and results indicated a 6% decrease in total cholesterol levels. More research showed that beta glucan, which exists in other foods, has cholesterol-lowering abilities. In fact, beta glucan from oats significantly lowered cholesterol levels in several studies. More research on beta glucan from nutritional yeast is needed to confirm these results from oat beta glucan. 

Boosts Energy Levels

Some manufacturers fortify nutritional yeast with vitamin B12, but do your best to seek out the ones that are not fortified. Vitamin B12 may help boost energy levels, as a common sign of B12 deficiency is fatigue and weakness. Adults need about 2.4 mcg of vitamin B12 every day, and two teaspoons satisfies this amount and more. If you are a vegan and find that your energy levels seem low all the time, consider adding nutritional yeast to your diet and see if you notice an improvement in overall energy.

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A strong immune system can help you fight off infections, common colds, flus, and other bacteria or viruses. While there are certain lifestyle habits that contribute to healthy immune function, the key to enhancing immunity is your diet. The right foods won’t change the way your immune system operates overnight, but they provide your body with antiviral, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory compounds.

What Is The Immune System?

The immune system is an interactive network of organs, white blood cells, and proteins, all of which work together to protect the body from foreign substances. Working to neutralize bacteria, pathogens, and viruses that enter the body, the immune system works round the clock. A healthy immune system recognizes harmful substances from the environment and fights against cells in the body, which have been harmed or changed by way of an illness. An unhealthy immune system attacks certain cells, organs, or systems within the body, resulting in autoimmune disorders.

The innate immune system works as a general defense against pathogens. The adaptive immune system works to address specific pathogens that the body already is in contact with. These two systems work together to keep the body healthy, and you can enhance their function by eating the foods below. 

Ginger

Herbal healers in many cultures have relied on ginger’s ability to boost immune function. In Ayurveda, for example, the belief is that ginger breaks down the accumulation of toxins in the organs because it has a warming effect. Studies found that ginger works to cleanse the lymphatic system, helping the body eliminate toxins, waste, and other unwanted materials. Ginger essential oil also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help treat infectious diseases. 

Beta-Carotene Foods

Beta-carotene foods tend to be orange, but there are greens that are also great sources. Carrots, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, papaya, apricots, red bell peppers, kale, collard greens, and spinach offer beta-carotene in droves. Research studies indicate that getting beta-carotene via food is much better than taking supplements. This is because foods contain carotenoids, which are antioxidant compounds that optimize immune function and fight free radicals. 

Green Tea

There are many studies and articles that encourage the consumption of green tea. It contains powerful antioxidants that exhibit immunomodulatory properties. Researchers note that green tea works as an antiviral and antifungal agent that may benefit immunocompromised patients. Because green tea contains caffeine, you don’t want to drink it all day long, but a cup a day may help to enhance immune function.

Vitamin C Foods

It may surprise you to learn that citrus fruits are not the richest sources of vitamin C. There are many fruits that exhibit impressive levels of vitamin C. Bell peppers, black currants, cranberries, guavas, citrus fruits, honeydew, parsley, mangos, pineapples, and kiwis contain a lot of vitamin C. Studies show that getting enough vitamin C in your daily diet may help reduce symptoms of respiratory infections. Vitamin C may also work to shorten the duration of certain illnesses, including bronchitis and the common cold. 

Almonds

Most people don’t think of almonds as immune-boosting foods, but they offer a diverse mix of nutrients that benefit the immune system. Almonds are great sources of vitamin E, and although it takes a backseat to vitamin C, it does exhibit powerful antioxidant capabilities. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it needs fat for the body to properly absorb it. Fortunately, almonds contain lots of healthy fats, which help the body efficiently absorb and process the vitamin E. 

Turmeric

Known for reducing inflammation, turmeric is the golden powder that is a key ingredient in many curries. It is a bright orange-yellow spice with a bitter flavor profile, offering potent anti-inflammatory properties that have a proven ability to benefit people with arthritis. Research shows that curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, may decrease exercise-induced muscle damage. It may also act as an antiviral agent, according to animal studies, so more human studies are necessary to confirm this. 

Spinach

Spinach didn’t just make the list because it is a rich source of vitamin C. It is rich in numerous antioxidants, including beta-carotene, which may help the body fight off infections. Similar to broccoli, spinach retains most of its nutrients in its raw state. Cooking spinach, however, makes it easier for the body to absorb the vitamin A. Cooking spinach a little also aids the release of other nutrients from the oxalic acid, an anti-nutrient.

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Medical misinformation is far from new. In fact, it became so rampant and harmful during the COVID-19 pandemic that the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy had to issue an advisory about it in 2021. Not only does health misinformation threaten public health, but it can also cause mistrust, confusion, and can undermine public health efforts. 

Now, there are many countries around the world dealing with monkeypox. In the United States, monkeypox was recently declared a health emergency, which you can learn more about by clicking here. Because it is a relatively new outbreak and the disease is unfamiliar, monkeypox naturally has conspiracies and misinformation around it. Rumors will kick into high gear and people may or may not believe the information that comes out. As a result, people won’t have the information they need to stay safe. 

Infectious disease experts got together to put an end to the misinformation about monkeypox. Below, you will find myths about the disease that health experts debunked. 

Myth: Monkeypox Is A New Strain Of COVID-19

No, monkeypox is not a new strain of COVID-19. In fact, monkeypox belongs to the smallpox family of viruses, meaning there is no connection to monkeypox and the coronavirus. There is a different transmission and life cycle, so you don’t contract it the same way you contract COVID-19. Monkeypox is not an airborne virus and even though cases are on the rise, it isn’t showing the fatalities that resulted from COVID-19 infection. That said, the signs and symptoms of the virus can be unpleasant and severe. 

Myth: Monkeypox Is A New Disease

This may be the first time in history that people in the United States are learning about monkeypox. In reality, monkeypox has been around for more than six decades. Scientists first learned of the virus in 1958, when two pox-like outbreaks occurred in colonies of research monkeys. It was Dr. Mark Fischer, the regional medical director at International SOS, who said it was first seen in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Until this year, however, most monkeypox cases were limited to a few African countries, where the virus is endemic. 

Myth: You Can Get Monkeypox From A Swimming Pool

Scientists continue to research monkeypox and how it spreads. As of now, it doesn’t seem to be a waterborne virus; rather, it primarily spreads via skin-to-skin contact. It can spread when people touch unwashed linens and clothing previously used/worn by someone with monkeypox. Keeping that in mind, take precautions at the swimming pool. Be aware of what you touch, including towels, clothing, and other objects outside of the pool. The pool itself will probably not give you monkeypox, but coming in contact with an infected person in the pool or around the pool may cause infection.

Myth: Monkeypox Only Affects Gay And Bisexual Men

The current outbreak has symptoms that differ from previously monkeypox outbreaks. Some of these symptoms include genital lesions, anal pain, penile swelling, and rectal bleeding. That said, the symptoms are not limited to these sexual orientations. Some social media users have attempted to claim monkeypox as a “gay sickness,” but this is simply untrue. Anybody can contract monkeypox via close contact. Men who have sex with men without using protection during intercourse do have a higher risk of infection, though. 

Myth: There Is No Treatment For Monkeypox

In most cases, the monkeypox virus is self-limiting, meaning most of the infection resolves itself in about two to four weeks. If diagnosed in the right time frame, there are many treatment strategies to fight against monkeypox. For symptomatic care, experts advise people to hydrate, increase electrolyte intake, and take antipyretics. Antivirals, NSAIDs, paracetamol, and nutritional support are all used to treat fever and pain that can come with infection. Additionally, there are two vaccines available to protect against the monkeypox virus, even though both are not monkeypox specific. They are, however, at least 85% effective against monkeypox. 

Myth: Monkeypox Was Created In A Lab

There are people who love a good conspiracy theory, but this is a big myth. Monkeypox originated in a colony of monkeys studied for research in the late 1950s. Sporadic outbreaks occurred over the years, primarily in the tropical rain forests of Central and West Africa. Currently, it remains unknown if the virus originated in monkeys or if they contracted it from another species. Because several species can carry it, monkeys may not have transmitted the virus to humans.

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There is never a bad time to boost the immune system. Whether you are worried about the new coronavirus variant, seasonal allergies, or a cold circulating the office, there are myriad ways to strengthen immune response. Where do you turn for immune support, though? There are supplements, diets, specific foods, and therapies that offer support, but the herbs in this article show a lot of promise. 

As it turns out, Mother Nature herself can be very beneficial in your quest to enhance immune function. Many wellness experts support the idea of using specific herbs and plants to fight off pathogens, allergens, bacteria, and viruses. These things may not be the cure-all solution you want, but studies confirm their ability to improve immunity. Read on to learn about three herbs that give you immune support throughout the year. 

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is known for promoting liver detoxification, but how does that aid immune function? Well, the liver is responsible for purifying blood and removing toxins from the body, but it also has to break down histamine, which milk thistle can help with. In fact, people used milk thistle seed extract for centuries to treat hepatic conditions by protecting intact liver cells. Having a healthy liver can help you improve immune response. Several studies found that milk thistle has immunomodulatory effects. The silymarin in milk thistle stimulates the immune system, but it also acts as a suppressive to an overactive immune system. This is extremely beneficial if you deal with chronic inflammation and inflammatory conditions like allergic rhinitis and asthma. More human studies could help scientists determine if milk thistle benefits the immune system, and overall health, in other ways. 

Turmeric

Turmeric is a favorite superfood for many reasons. It may help to boost memory, reduce inflammation, and optimize immune function. Researchers attribute turmeric’s health properties to the active compound curcumin, which exhibits antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, all of which support the immune system. One study found that curcumin supplementation may work to lower levels of several acute-phase proteins. These proteins occur when the immune system is in a state of hyper-activation, which can damage your health. The chronic activation of these proteins can suppress the body’s natural antiviral defenses. Curcumin works to normalize certain parts of the immune system that become overactive, helping to keep the immune system functioning optimally and normally. 

Stinging Nettle

It stings the body in just the right way! Even though nettle is annoying for gardeners and an enemy to bare skin, it does exhibit powerful health benefits. Well, it has a long history of supporting upper-respiratory health and anti-inflammatory pathways. The leaves of this notorious spring green, just like milk thistle, may support liver detoxification. Several studies also identified that nettle can increase both red and white blood cell counts, an ability that contributes to optimal immune function. One animal study found that nettle was an immune response modulator, stimulating the proliferation of T lymphocytes in vitro. These T-cells are powerful white blood cells that play an integral role in adaptive immune response. More human research is necessary, but preliminary research suggests that it is a great herb to support a healthy immune system. 

These herbs may be the unsung heroes of year-round immune support. As is customary with taking any new supplement or herb, consult your doctor to see if these herbs are right for you. As we’ve discussed in this article, these herbs help to support upper-respiratory health, promote anti-inflammatory pathways, and nourish the liver. Enhance their efforts by maintaining a healthy diet, getting sufficient sleep, and exercising regularly.

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It may not be cold and flu season, but it’s always beneficial to know how to get rid of a sore throat. Springtime is a popular time of year to experience allergies or general infections, and there’s nothing fun about either scenario. Both tend to result in that scratchy discomfort that you know will lead to unpleasant, sickly feelings. 

Although you may not be able to cure your sore throat overnight, drinking certain herbal teas can accelerate your recovery. Licorice root, slippery elm, peppermint, and more teas may reduce throat swelling and mucus production. Warm teas like these help the throat open and relax, opening the door for healing to begin. While iced beverages may seem better and more refreshing, hot liquids are best for soothing a sore throat. Several studies found that iced beverages can cause throat spasms, which cause more irritation. 

There are many warm brews that will support and soothe a sore throat. We don’t have all of them detailed in this article, but we tried to round up the best ones. Keep reading to learn which teas are most effective at soothing a sore throat. 

Ginger Tea

Ginger root is a powerful anti-inflammatory herb that can help soothe indigestion and sore throat. The gingerols and shogoals in ginger exhibit pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, which work to reduce irritation. Several scientific studies say that ginger may exhibit antimicrobial properties that fight viral infections that cause sore throats. Many of the studies on ginger, though, use ginger extract, which may have a higher dose of antiviral properties than regular ginger tea. More research is necessary to determine if ginger tea has the same effects. 

Licorice Root Tea

There is some research indicating licorice root’s ability to eliminate phlegm and mucus. It may also act as a coating agent, helping to soothe a sore throat. Researchers identified three important substances in licorice root that may relieve sore throat pain: liquilitin, liquiritigenin, and glycyrrhizin. Both liquilitin and liquiritigenin are expectorants, which work to loosen mucus so you can cough it up more easily. Glycyrrhizin acts as a demulcent, which provides the protective coating over the throat, preventing irritation when you swallow. 

Peppermint Tea

Dealing with a scratchy throat and a nasty cough? Bust out the peppermint tea because it is one of the best teas for soothing a sore throat. The menthol in peppermint exhibits antiviral and antibacterial properties. One study found that it has an antitussive effect, meaning it may have the ability to relieve a cough. More research on this is necessary, though. Other benefits of drinking peppermint tea include relieving upset stomach and cleaning out sinuses. 

Marshmallow Root Tea

No, this tea has nothing to do with s’mores, nor does it taste like roasted marshmallows. Marshmallow root tea is great for loosening mucus in the throat, meaning you can cough it up more easily. That may relieve a dry cough so you experience less pain in the throat. A 2018 study surveyed people who took marshmallow root syrup or lozenges to treat a cough. Within 10 minutes, most of the people reported that their throats felt much better and had a reduced urge to cough. 

Green Tea

Although many people drink green tea for the caffeine, it does have powerful antioxidants that help enhance immune function. Many of the anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties come from epigallocatechin-3-gallate. This compound works to reduce inflammatory proteins in the body, accelerating the healing process. Sore throats tend to result from an inflamed pharynx, which can make swallowing a more painful experience. In order to reap the benefits of green tea, you can either drink it or you can gargle with it. If you choose to gargle green tea, please do so for 30 seconds at a time. Make sure the tea is warm, not hot, so that you don’t burn your mouth when you gargle. 

Slippery Elm Tea

Just like licorice root, slippery elm has demulcent properties that provide a protective coating on the throat. The plant’s mucilage contains antioxidants that work to provide soothing properties to calm irritation. In addition to relieving sore throat pain, slippery elm may also soothe an upset stomach. If you experience indigestion, upset stomach, or need relief from coughing, brew a cup of slippery elm tea and drink it until symptoms subside. 

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There are currently three available COVID-19 vaccines in the United States. The FDA has authorized all three, which include Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. The CDC even gave a recent recommendation for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which was paused due to several cases of blood clots. 

While these vaccines have proven to be effective against the virus that causes COVID-19, people are wary of the injections. Pain at the injection site (shoulder) is very common, but it’s also possible to experience fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, aches, and other flu-like symptoms after the shot. Additionally, people who have needle phobias are not chomping at the bit to receive the vaccines. That fear may go away soon because the next generation of COVID-19 vaccines may come in the form of nasal sprays or pills. 

What Do We Know About The New COVID-19 Vaccine Pills?

Clinical trials for the new antiviral therapy for COVID-19 began in March 2021. Pfizer-BioNTech created the pills, which enter a class of medicines known as protease inhibitors. According to reports, the new intravenous antiviral candidate works by inhibiting an enzyme that the virus needs to multiply in human cells. This class of medicines exists in treatments for hepatitis C, HIV, and other viral pathogens. 

A nasal spray vaccine may be available as early as 2022, but this will depend on clinical efficacy. The main thing that developers and researchers are concerned with is how well the new vaccines perform against variants of SARS-CoV-2. The race to a solution for COVID-19 is fast, as five companies are currently developing oral vaccines. Two of those companies have already entered phase 1 clinical trials. These trials aim to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of one or two-dose regimens.

Many scientists relish in the excitement of these new innovations. Their goal is to use what they know about the current vaccine and the virus’ variants and channel that knowledge into the next generation vaccines. The information on the current vaccines informs scientists how they act against certain parts of the virus, stimulating immune responses in the body. 

What Do Health Experts Say?

According to many health experts and infectious disease specialists, an oral vaccine could change the game. If approved, recently infected people could take it outside of hospitals. The hope is that the pill is so effective that it keeps the disease from progressing, causing symptoms that require hospitalization. Health experts also say that people will be more willing to get vaccines if they come in pill form or nasal sprays. They are “less-intimidating,” according to a survey of U.S. adults. 

How Will The New Pills Or Nasal Sprays Work?

The three injectable vaccines work to prompt an immune response that combats coronavirus spike proteins. According to ImmunityBio, a company working on a next generation COVID-19 vaccine, their capsule vaccine targets mutation-prone outer spike proteins and more stable inner proteins. This works to activate T cells, antibodies, and memory B cells against the coronavirus. 

Altimmune is another company working on a next generation COVID-19 vaccine. This would be a nasal spray, which would spawn an immune response at the point where the virus enters the body. The goal is to cause mucosal immunity in the nasal cavity. The nasal spray would also stimulate T-cell and antibody responses. 

Roughly seven out of 10 Americans prefer a pill to a needle injection. This is why so many companies are racing to develop next generation COVID-19 vaccines. They want to help achieve herd immunity and prevent serious future outbreaks that require mass hospitalization. Ultimately, though, research is still preliminary and more clinical studies are necessary. 

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