Your immune system is nature's way of protecting you from invading bacteria and viruses. But stress, a poor diet, environmental pollutants and sleep deprivation can weaken it. As cold and flu season sets in, it's more important than ever to support your immune system.

Western medicine promotes vaccines, which contain dead or weakened bacteria, viruses or other materials such as inactive toxins to stimulate the production of antibodies against a specific pathogen.

However, there are a number of safe herbs that enhance overall immunity by stimulating or strengthening the body's own defense mechanisms, without adding stress to your system. Daily nutritional supplementation is your best bet for making sure your nutritional needs are met, as well as supporting your immune system.

These five potent, yet gentle, herbs have a proven track record and scientific studies to back them up:

Andrographis paniculata - this herb is used in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine to support healthy digestive, cardiovascular and urinary systems. In Sweden, andrographis has been used for more than 10 years as a primary herb to combat flu and upper respiratory infections.

Astragalus root - this plant is native to Mongolia and China and has been used for thousands of years to ward off illness and strengthen the immune system. It enhances the immune function by increasing the activity of certain white blood cells, which increases the production of antibodies.

Olive leaf extract - the active ingredient in olive leaves has been used effectively against viruses, retroviruses, bacterium, parasites, yeasts, protozoans, fungi, molds and other microbes and diseases in laboratory testing.

Elderberry extract - this substance has traditionally been used to ease cold and flu symptoms, sinus problems, fevers and muscle pain.

Echinacea - this perennial herb is native to the midwestern and southeastern United States. Native Americans used it more than any other plant for treating illness and injury. Although echinacea's popularity waned with the advent of antibiotics, today it is the best-selling herbal extract in America.

Copyright � 2006, ARA Content

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