Our immune systems are constantly under attack. Whenever we go out into the world, our bodies face a number of viruses that could cause illness in our bodies.

Thankfully, our immune systems work around the clock to fight off these foreign invaders and maintain our health. 

Sometimes our bodies could use a little extra help to improve our defenses and boost our immune systems, though. Whether we’re under stress, can’t get enough sleep, or are facing a more potent virus, natural remedies can help a fatigued or overwhelmed immune system.

Types of Viruses

Viruses are different than bacteria. While bacteria are single-cell organisms, viruses are not living. Instead, they depend on host cells (such as humans) to reproduce and grow. Viruses also don’t respond to antibiotics. While antibiotics are lifesaving in the case of a bacterial infection, they can cause harm when they are not necessary.

Some common viruses that most of us face at some point include: 

• Flu
• Herpes (Type 1 and 2)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Mononucleosis (Mono)
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV/AIDS)
• Viral pneumonia
• Viral Meningitis
• Viral Hepatitis

How Herbs Can Help

Long before scientists could isolate viruses and study their activities, health practitioners used herbs and mushrooms to help boost the immune system. Today, researchers have been able to isolate the compounds in these plants that make them so powerful.

Learn More About VIRU-RS: Click here

Chaga Mushroom

Chaga is a black mushroom that typically grows in cold and northern climates. Although the plant may look ominous, it imparts an impressive number of benefits. Its antiviral health benefits are well-known, and Russians have been brewing finely grated Chaga in their teas for hundreds of years as a folk remedy. 

Modern science has confirmed its immune-boosting benefits for those looking to fight viruses. 

Acute inflammation is helpful for the body when it faces an infection. It helps kill off viruses quickly and reduce any damage that they might cause. However, dysregulated inflammation can affect how well the body can respond to viruses. Chronic inflammation brings down the immune system so that its response to viruses is limited.

Chaga has potent properties that help reduce dysregulated and chronic inflammation so that the immune system can better react to viruses. 

One study on mice found that it helped reduce inflammation and boost the immune system when they underwent chemotherapy. Another study found that it helped lower inflammation on mice with colitis, an autoimmune condition.

Research also shows that chaga helps boost white blood cells, which fight viruses in the body. One study on immunosuppressed mice found that it helped enhance their immune systems. Different test-tube research showed that it improves immunomodulation, which ensures that the immune system works properly.

A more recent 2020 study found that chaga, along with other herbs, helped stimulate innate immunity. Although the research explored its effect on tumors, this innate immunity also has implications in inhibiting viruses.

More human studies need to be done to explore the many benefits of chaga mushrooms. However, the research and historical use point to its effectiveness in reducing the risk of viruses and aiding the immune system.

Elderberry

Elderberry, a small, dark purple berry from the Sambucus tree, is not just a tasty ingredient but also a little powerhouse against viruses. It’s like a natural shield, boasting antiviral properties that might give colds and flu a tough time.

Scientific research suggests that elderberry extract can hinder the replication of viruses, potentially shortening the duration of infections. Imagine it as a tiny, berry-sized superhero fighting off viral villains!

Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and antioxidants, adding an extra punch to your immune system. Remember, though, it’s not a cure-all magic berry – it’s best used alongside a healthy lifestyle and professional medical advice. Isn’t it amazing how nature provides such cool tools for our health?

Turkey Tail Mushroom

Turkey tail earned its name as a mushroom for its turkey tail coloring and appearance. It can be found all across North America and throughout the world. In China, health practitioners use Turkey Tail to treat lung ailments. Practitioners in Japan used the mushroom to strengthen the immune system. It was also common in Indigenous tribes throughout North America.

Although many people realize that the immune system can be too weak at times, it can also be too strong and cause damage. The term “cytokine storm” has recently become more commonly known as a potentially deadly overreaction by the body to a virus. 

Turkey tail works as an immunomodulating mushroom. That means it can boost a weak immune system, but it can also calm an overactive one. One 2019 study demonstrated that it could activate the immune system, which can be useful when fighting against viruses. 

Another 2020 study found that turkey tail, along with a mixture of mushrooms, demonstrated immunomodulatory effects.

Turkey tail helps the body find the perfect response against viruses. One preliminary study found that it was effective against HSV-1 or the oral strain of herpes. During the 2-month treatment, 88% of patients who took the mushroom saw improvement.

Turkey tail can be a powerful boost when the immune system needs extra help fighting off viruses. Research shows that it can help reduce the risk of viruses and provide the body additional support when it is most vulnerable.

Olive Leaf

Olive leaf, derived from the venerable olive tree, is more than just a symbol of peace. It’s a hidden gem in the world of natural health. This leaf is celebrated for its antiviral properties, stemming from a compound called oleuropein.

Oleuropein is like a natural warrior, helping to disrupt the life cycle of viruses and potentially reducing their impact. Olive leaf extract isn’t just about fighting viruses; it’s also a source of antioxidants, supporting overall health and vitality.

Incorporating olive leaf into your wellness routine could be like having a secret weapon for your immune system. Isn’t it fascinating how something so simple can be so powerful?

Betulin

White Birch is known chiefly today for its beauty and changing leaves. However, people have used the white bark as a natural medicine for hundreds, perhaps thousands, of years. Scientists today found the reason for this: one of the properties in the bark, Betulin, is actually a potent antiviral compound.

Research shows that Betulin is an anti-HIV molecule. Studies have found that it is powerful against various viruses. 

A recent 2020 study found antiviral effects against Dengue virus, while another study found anti-influenza activity. Research from 2020 also found that it had a protective effect against Zika Virus.  

It is also anti-inflammatory, which can help ensure that the immune system is not hindered by chronic inflammation.

With its vast number of antiviral properties, it can provide a potent boost to the immune system.

Licorice Root

Licorice root, known scientifically as Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a sweet-tasting root with surprising health benefits. It’s particularly noted for its antiviral qualities. Studies suggest that the compounds in licorice root can help in fighting against virus-induced respiratory infections and other viral illnesses. 

This is due to its ability to interfere with virus replication and penetration into host cells. Licorice root also has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, making it a useful ally in your natural health arsenal. Isn’t it remarkable how this sweet root can be such a strong defender against viruses?

Life Hacks to Combat Viruses

While herbs and mushrooms can provide the immune system with a potent boost in the face of viruses, they can’t beat a healthy lifestyle. Some ways that you can protect yourself against viruses with a healthy lifestyle include:

• Sunlight. Most Americans are critically lacking vitamin D, which is vital for the immune system. Sunlight contains multiple additional properties that research shows that sunlight can help aid the immune system.
• Sleep. Sleep is foundational for human health. It helps the immune system to work optimally to rid itself of viruses. Aim to get 7-9 hours of high-quality sleep each night.
• Colorful diet. Nutrient-dense foods provide the body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to fight viruses. Also, cut out starch and sugar, which can dampen the immune response and lead to chronic inflammation.
• Stress reduction. Low-stress levels are critical for the immune system. Take time each day to do an enjoyable activity, meditate, pray, and practice deep breathing.
• Wim Hof Method. Wim Hof has recently enjoyed popularity for his breathing methods and use of cold exposure. Researchers found that participants that used these techniques were able to control their immune response. Although the research was on bacterial infections, it could also affect viral infections.
• Green tea. Catechins in tea have been shown to inhibit viruses’ ability to reproduce.

Fight Back Against Viruses

When combined with a healthy lifestyle, certain plants can help boost the immune system and help the body combat viruses. It can even help strengthen the body against viruses that medicine can do little to improve, such as HIV and herpes. 

Using the purest sources, we found herbs and mushrooms that reduce the risk of viruses and boost the immune system. We’ve combined these potent ingredients in our two formulas, VIRU-RS and Chaga Shroom. 

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