Echinacea and Immunity

By Dr. Janine Pulley

How do you strengthen your immune system?

For the most part, your immune system does a great job of defending you against disease. But it can’t catch everything: A bug gets past your natural defenses and makes you sick.

Is it possible to make your immune system stronger? What if you improve your diet? Take certain vitamins or herbal supplements? Make lifestyle changes in the hope of making your body germ proof?

The first line of defense against any invader is a healthy way of life. The healthier you are to start with the more you can resist disease.

Try the following:

• Eat a healthy diet
• Don’t smoke
• Exercise regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation
• Get adequate sleep
• Wash your hands regularly
• Get regular Chiropractic Adjustments
• Supplement with Immune boosting herbs

 Echinacea

Echinacea is a flowering plant and a member of the daisy family commonly known as purple coneflower. The leaves, stem and roots of the flower have been used for centuries as a natural immune booster.

There have been numerous studies showing the positive benefits of Echinacea as a dietary supplement. Echinacea is commonly used to shorten and reduce symptoms of the of the common cold and flu, such as a sore throat. Fever and cough.

Several laboratory studies suggest that Echinacea can boost immune function, reduce inflammation, relieve pain, is anti-viral and has antioxidant effects. The plant has been recommended to fight urinary tract infections, yeast infections (candida), ear infections, sinusitis, hay fever as well as treat slow-healing wounds. Although there are many products on the shelves, the ones made from the plant’s roots are the most effective.

At Pulley Chiropractic and Acupuncture, we carry a product line that is derived from the roots of two species of the Echinacea plant, Echinacea Angustifolia and Echinacea Purpura to get the benefit of each plant’s unique properties. The blending of these two species ensures that the you get the maximum strength and quality of product. The extract of the root contains the highest concentrations of the anti-infective alkaloids that give Echinacea its curative power. The alkylamides found in Echinacea are so active that they can actually cause a “tingle” in your mouth when you taste them – so if your supplement does not do that, it does not contain the dosage you need!

In combination with a healthy lifestyle, Echinacea can give you an extra edge in the fight against common winter ailments. 

 Dr. Pulley is always more than happy to discuss tailored recommendations for you, so call 978-237-5106 today to schedule your appointment today!