During the winter months, our immune system may be more vulnerable due to low temperatures and the increased prevalence of respiratory infections. Supplementation with certain vitamins and plant extracts can help prevent infections, combat nutritional deficiencies, and improve the body’s response to pathogens.
Among the vitamins most widely known for its action on the immune system is vitamin D. Its supplementation is important in cold times of the year, when exposure to the sun decreases, and being its main source can cause deficiencies of this vitamin in the body. Vitamin D contributes to the activation of immune defenses, improves the immune response with activation of T lymphocytes, and can reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
Vitamin C also plays a crucial role as an antioxidant that helps protect the body’s cells from oxidative damage. Among its other benefits, it maintains the body’s natural barriers, increases the activity of enzymes and antibodies, encourages the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infections, and can reduce the duration and severity of colds.
On the other hand, there are medicinal plants as a natural source of active compounds that stimulate cellular activity, increasing the number of defense cells in the body. One of the most popular immunostimulant species is Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea), plant rich in phenolic acids, alkylamides, saponins and polysaccharides, that increases the number of leukocytes and activates the cells of the innate immunity, providing a certain anti-inflammatory activity. Although Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is known more as an energizing plant, it also plays a similar role. This adaptogenic plant, rich in saponins, contributes to both innate and specific immunity.
Another plant extract recognized for its antioxidant properties is Turmeric (Curcuma longa). Curcumin, its main active compound, can regulate the activity of immune system cells by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory substances and inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes, thus promoting an anti-inflammatory environment.
Finally, the root extract of the adaptogenic plant Eleutherococcus (Eleutherococcus senticosus), composed of its active ingredients known as eleutherosides, has the ability to enhance immunostimulant activity. This is achieved by stimulating phagocytosis, a key process in the body’s defense, in addition to increasing the number of other essential components of the immune system.
The combination of these supplements can offer comprehensive support to strengthen the immune system and face the challenges of the cold season. Research into plant extracts and their activity on our body continues to advance, and at Lleó, we are committed to keeping you informed about the latest advances in this field.
