Ashwagandha Tea for Immune Function
For more than three centuries, ashwagandha has been known as a powerful natural remedy for health. Made from the dried root powder of the plant, ashwagandha is often known as ‘Indian Ginseng’, not because it is a relative of the ginseng family, but because it shares many similarities to ginseng. Both plants are adaptogens, capable of normalizing body function and promoting health throughout the body by reducing stress, easing fatigue and, naturally, by strengthening immune function.
Threats to the Immune System
Our immune system works constantly to protect us against an unending attack from infectious agents. In most cases, our body’s natural defense is strong enough to withstand the attack, and very few of the many bacteria, viruses and fungi we encounter will ever actually slip past our defenses long enough to make us sick. However, when our immune system is compromised, it becomes less able to fend against these pathogens, and we become susceptible to bacteria and viruses we would normally be able to eliminate. Some of the things that can weaken the immune system are:
Stress: Perhaps the most significant factor, extreme or prolonged stress has a heavy toll on the body, leading to fatigue, irritability, and decreased immune efficiency. It is important to counter the effects of stress wherever possible, and in stressful times, to take other measures to protect your immune system and reduce the risk of illness.
Exhaustion: This can either stem from inadequate sleep or overwork, athletic or otherwise. Rest is important for the body to remain healthy and functioning properly. If the body is not allowed to recharge sufficiently, key systems will suffer for it, including the immune system.
Medication: A number of prescribed medications carry side effects that can negatively impact the immune system, making it harder for the body to defend itself. If you are taking such medication and find yourself frequently getting sick, you should consult with your doctor about ways you can build up your immune system, or about choosing an alternative treatment.
Fitness: Your fitness level affects more than your appearance and energy, but also impacts the immune system. A sedentary lifestyle makes the body work harder to accomplish its many tasks, and leaves little energy for the immune system to function properly.
Diet: As with any system, certain foods can support immune health, such as various fruits and vegetables, while other foods can be very detrimental. Foods high in sugars or carbohydrates can cause a serious problem, and red meats also carry risk, as they can contain pro-inflammatory compounds.
How Ashwagandha Tea Builds Immunity
As an adaptogen, ashwagandha tea is excellent for supporting and strengthening the immune system. Studies have shown that ashwagandha helps to charge and mobilize immune cells to counter infection, specifically infection-fighting lymphocytes. By improving the activity of Killer T cells and Natural Killer cells, ashwagandha tea may help the body to eliminate infection more quickly. Furthermore, ashwagandha tea helps to reduce weakening of the immune system due to stress by limiting the release of cortisol, a stress hormone that suppresses the immune system. Ashwagandha tea also contains antioxidants that eliminate free radicals, which cause damage to the immune system and reduce the body’s ability to fight infection.
