Why Grow Immune Boosting Herbs and Medicinal Plants?

Our global food system is dominated by industrial agriculture. Food manufacturing facilities make highly processed and refined foods that do not provide much nutritional value. The lack of a nutritious and wholesome diet has not only led to the drastic increase of chronic diseases such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes - it also negatively affects our immune systems.

Taking vitamin C during flu season has long been a popular way to stay healthy. Adequate vitamin C consumption can help immune cells identify and kill viruses and bacteria. Instead of merely purchasing vitamin C capsules at your local pharmacy, however, incorporating different types of fruits, plants, and other medicinal herbs that are high in essential vitamins and minerals can help maintain a robust immune system throughout the year. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, "malnutrition or a diet lacking in one or more nutrients can impair the production and activity of immune cells and antibodies." In short, a healthy diet that focuses on wholesome nutrition can help to create a robust immune system.

Another good reason to grow your immune-boosting herbs and medicinal plants at home is to reduce dependence on antibiotics. Some health experts are already beginning to warn that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) might be the next major pandemic to sweep across the globe. Healthy immune systems can fight off many types of minor microbial infections without the need to prescribe antibiotics.  A host of plants and herbs has natural antimicrobial functions that can help effectively fight off minor infections.

Does Ginger and Turmeric Boost Your Immune System?

These two tropical or subtropical root plants have long been heralded in Ayurvedic medicine and cooking. Besides offering a unique flavor profile to any dish, they also are loaded with numerous health benefits.

The edible, bright yellow rhizome of the turmeric plant is one of the best natural anti-inflammatories you can find. Even professional hockey players have used turmeric to reduce inflammation that arises from their sport's physical nature. Because chronic inflammation is one of the root causes of several chronic diseases affecting today's population, turmeric supplements have never been more popular. 

Research indicates that turmeric might also boost the immune system by exerting immunomodulatory effects on several cells and organs of the immune system.

Similarly, ginger can combat chronic inflammation while maintaining an immune system healthy. Studies suggest that ginger can enhance your immune response and act as a protective measure due to ginger's potent antiviral and antibacterial properties.

Because ginger and turmeric are native to tropical areas, they will die off when exposed to extended frosts or cold temperatures. Fortunately, ginger and turmeric are easy to grow in pots or other containers that you can move indoors during the winter. All you need to do is plant a fresh rhizome (or stem that grows underground) of turmeric or ginger in fertile topsoil. In ideal conditions, you should get your first harvest within 8 to 10 months. As a bonus, both ginger and turmeric offer beautiful tropical foliage that can help to regulate the humidity levels inside your home during the drier winter months. A sunny windowsill or an enclosed patio or sunroom are perfect areas to keep turmeric and ginger during the winter months.