To strengthen the immune system naturally – defense and protection for the body

“Health is not everything, but without health everything is nothing.” So Schopenhauer once wrote. Anyone who has ever been seriously ill will confirm this without hesitation. Even minor infections throw us off track and make everyday life enormously difficult. Lucky is the one who has a strong immune system!

But good defenses are by no means a twist of fate. We have all kinds of possibilities to strengthen our immune system naturally. Learn in this article the basics of your body’s defenses. We explain how you can stay healthy and how vital mushrooms can support you.

The immune system: guardian of our health

What is the immune system?

Even if we don’t realize it, our immune system is constantly fighting off attacks on our body. It fights against viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, free radicals and degenerated cells. Thus, it not only protects us against infections and all kinds of parasites, but in many cases even prevents the development of tumors. In order to cope with all these tasks, the immune system has to act extremely intelligently and efficiently. It always follows a two-step procedure:
1. it detects the danger and identifies the unwanted intruder.
2. it fights the intruder and disposes of its remains.
If we do fall ill, the recovery process is also based on our immune system. In the event of illness, it continually fights against the existing infection or attacks degenerate cells that are multiplying.

In principle, our organism is vulnerable to attack at almost any point. Therefore, a functioning defense must be ready everywhere. The immune system cannot therefore be assigned to a specific region in the body. Its cells and messenger substances are produced in various organs and tissues and are distributed throughout the organism via the blood, for example. A central location for the immune defence is the intestine. Around 80 % of the immune-relevant cells are located here. However, the lymphatic system, thymus, bone marrow, spleen, skin and mucous membranes also play a key role in maintaining our health.

Specific and non-specific defence

Doctors distinguish between the so-called “specific” and “non-specific” defense in the immune system. The latter is also called “innate” immune defense, because its mechanism already works in the womb. An essential principle of the non-specific defence is to prevent troublemakers from entering in the first place. For this purpose, it has anatomical barriers such as skin, mucous membranes, saliva, tear fluid and gastric acid. Furthermore, the white blood cells (leukocytes) and the phagocytes (macrophages) are part of the innate defence system. Their task is to surround and digest all unwanted intruders.

On the other hand, there is the specific immune defense. This is precisely adapted to the respective environment of a person. It develops in the course of the first years of life and is constantly learning. If the body was once attacked by certain pathogens (antigens), the specific immune defense remembers their characteristics and forms appropriate antibodies. If it is now attacked by the same pathogen a second time, it can fight it extremely efficiently. Doctors refer to this as “immunity”. The specific immune system includes the B-cells and the T-cells – a specific type of white blood cells (lymphocytes). The specialized part of the immune system is also the reason, for example, why people in countries with poor water quality can drink the surface or tap water without any problems, while we as tourists get stomach problems.

TH1 vs. TH2 reactions

To better understand how to naturally boost your immune system, it is helpful to know the difference between TH1 and TH2 responses. First of all, TH is simply the abbreviation for “T helper cell”. The TH1 response involves very specific T helper cells, namely killer T cells, also called cytotoxic T cells. Their task is to kill infected body cells. In other words, they initiate cell death (apoptosis) to ensure that pathogens do not spread further.

In contrast, there is the TH2 immune response. This form of immune defense represents a direct fight against pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. For this purpose, the body activates so-called B cells, stimulates the mast cells and stimulates the formation of antibodies. If you want to strengthen your immune system, it is of course important to focus on both TH1 and TH2 reactions. Only if both mechanisms function harmoniously, our organism is well protected against diseases.

How can I recognize a weak immune system?

Not every infection indicates a weak immune system. Some pathogens are so strong and sophisticated that they can even cheat their way past a strong immune system. In such a case, an intact immune system ensures low symptom expression and a short duration of illness. However, if you suffer from allergies or persistent colds, you should take a closer look at your immune system. Recurring infections are also an indication of insufficient defences.

However, a weakened immune system does not have to manifest itself immediately in an illness. A first sign can already be a persistent feeling of tiredness. If you feel low on energy and tired for weeks, you are probably more susceptible to infections. Your immune system simply cannot perform as well as it should. It’s also usually during periods like this that more serious illnesses like cancer or chronic health problems like autoimmune diseases begin. However, if you take appropriate countermeasures at the first signs of a weak defense and strengthen your immune system naturally, you have a good chance of nipping diseases in the bud.

When the immune system overreacts

Excessive reactions of the immune system cause just as much impairment as an insufficient defense. Such dysregulations are usually related to an exaggeratedly strong TH1 reaction. Suddenly the body’s own defences turn against completely harmless substances of everyday life. The ability to distinguish between “good” and “bad” substances is lost. Such reactions can, for example, be directed against certain ingredients of food, house dust, animal hair or pollen. The diagnosis is then usually “allergy” or “intolerance”.

In the worst case, the immune system even acts against the body’s own cells. The consequences are autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, Hashimoto’s disease or inflammatory rheumatic diseases. The longer and more intense these excessive immune reactions are, the more serious the damage to the affected body parts or organs. But even in such cases, it is possible to rebalance the immune system with a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet.

Why is my immune system weak?

The immune system is a complex construct. This makes it very powerful, but also vulnerable on many different levels. The following factors weaken your defences:
– environmental toxins
– pollutants in food, cosmetics, detergents and cleaning agents
– lack of nutrients
– lack of exercise or excessive sport
– chronic lack of sleep (less than 6 hours per day)
– psychological factors such as chronic stress, worries, unprocessed conflicts
– excessive cold
– smoking
– stimulants (e.g. alcohol and sugar)
– medication
– too little fresh air
– dry air
– too little drinking.

How can I strengthen my immune system?

A strong immune system therefore comes from a healthy lifestyle, which consists of a balanced diet, a healthy night’s sleep and sufficient relaxation. In addition, to avoid dangerous pollutants, you should give priority to organic food. We will explain in more detail what else constitutes a healthy diet in a moment.

Just as important as healthy food is daily exercise in the fresh air. On the one hand, exercise activates the circulation and thus the metabolism. On the other hand, you need sunshine to produce enough vitamin D. This vitamin is an essential support for your defences. In addition, a walk is a very good way to leave the stress of everyday life behind for a while.

But even little things like regular airing and drinking 1.5 to 2 litres of water or unsweetened tea per day strengthen your defences. Humid indoor air maintains the natural protective film of the mucous membranes, while sufficient fluid intake promotes the flushing out of harmful substances. On the other hand, you should avoid alcohol, tobacco and an excess of sugar. Their consumption can completely paralyse parts of the immune system for several hours.

What foods strengthen the immune system?

A healthy diet for strong defenses contains above all plenty of vitamins and minerals. The basal vitamins are A, D, C, B6, folic acid and B12. If you want to strengthen your immune system naturally, iron, zinc, selenium and copper are also important in sufficient quantities. In addition, there are secondary plant compounds that support the body in many ways and provide antioxidants.

In a nutshell, a predominantly plant-based diet is ideal for the immune system. Always prepare your meals fresh and bring as much variety as possible into your diet. You should avoid animal products as much as possible. Instead, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and mushrooms form the basis. If you also work mainly with healthy vegetable fats such as rapeseed or linseed oil, you can be pretty sure to be well supplied with all the necessary nutrients.

What dangers do free radicals pose to the immune system?

At this point we would like to point out the dangers of free radicals for your health. When you think of pathogens, viruses and bacteria probably come to mind first and foremost. However, more than 50 diseases are now known to be caused by free radicals. These include, for example, arteriosclerosis, heart attacks, diabetes, rheumatism, cancer and allergies.

The problem here is: free radicals are completely normal by-products of our metabolism. However, certain factors additionally fuel the formation of these highly reactive molecules. Therefore, it is important to avoid harmful environmental influences such as radiation on the one hand and to strengthen the immune system naturally on the other hand in order to prevent oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Antioxidants play an important role in this context. They are able to bind free radicals. Fruit and vegetables, for example, contain plenty of them. But mushrooms are also full of these valuable substances for our health. In the case of mushroom powder, the antioxidant content is always more diverse if it is made from the whole mushroom instead of individual parts.

Alternative physicians also like to resort to oligomeric proanthocyanidins(OPC), which belong to the group of flavonoids. OPC contains an enormous amount of antioxidants and is mainly found in grape seeds. Corresponding preparations are available on the market. When taking OPC it is recommended to combine it with natural vitamin C as OPC and vitamin C mutually enhance their effects. Besides binding free radicals, this health cocktail has the ability to strengthen the immune system and naturally regulate the histamine release. This prevents the development of new allergies and alleviates the symptoms of already existing intolerances.

Strengthen the immune system naturally with vital mushrooms

How can medicinal mushrooms support the immune system?

The positive effect of medicinal mushrooms on the immune system has long been known. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, vital mushrooms have been used for centuries to alleviate acute infections as well as chronic diseases. Many of the effects handed down from time immemorial have recently been investigated and confirmed in scientific studies. That is why vital mushrooms such as Reishi, ABM, Coriolus and Shiitake are increasingly used in the western world to strengthen the immune system naturally.

Mushrooms contain many valuable substances that support our defenses and thus promote our health. For example, they are rich in minerals, vitamins, trace elements, enzymes, essential amino acids and fiber. In addition, the individual vital mushrooms each have very specific substances, each of which supports the immune system in its own way. Medicinal mushrooms are always so-called “adaptogens“. This means that they do not fundamentally stimulate the immune system, but rather have a balancing effect. That is why they work very well even with excessive immune reactions of the TH1 system.

Experienced mycotherapists know exactly for which problem and which disease which fungus counteracts most effectively. The intake of medicinal mushrooms can be used just as well as an adjunct to therapy as well as a preventative measure. Feel free to contact our experts if you have questions about the selection and dosage of medicinal mushrooms suitable for you.

Agaricus Blazei Murrill (ABM)

ABM for immunomodulation

Of all the vital mushrooms, Agaricus blazei murrill has a particularly high content of immune-regulating substances. These so-called “immune modulators” are substances that influence the immune system in a positive way and thus stabilize it in the long term. These are mainly beta-glucans, which belong to the group of polysaccharides. Their chemical structure is extremely complex and the reactions they trigger in the body are just as difficult to grasp. On the one hand, they can strengthen the immune system and naturally support the body’s defences. On the other hand, beta-glucans also dampen overreactions, such as those that occur in autoimmune diseases. If you suffer from an autoimmune disease, ABM can be a great support for you. In studies and in practice, the ABM has proven itself for example in:

• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• Multiple sclerosis
• Rheumatism
• Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
• Autoimmune diseases of the pancreas

Antioxidants

Besides the adaptogenic polysaccharides, ABM contains many antioxidant enzymes. These include, for example, superoxide dismutase, catalase and tyrosinase. They actively combat free radicals in the body. Thus, the intake of the ABM reduces the risk of getting diseases that are promoted by oxidative stress, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and fibromyalgia.

ABM against cancer

ABM is often used as an adjuvant in cancer therapy. Since it can naturally strengthen the immune system and bind free radicals, it helps both in the fight against degenerated cells and against the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, such as fatigue. It stimulates immune mechanisms that are essential for fighting tumor cells. In addition, ABM can even induce the death of tumor cells.

The bone marrow in particular suffers from intensive cancer treatment. Important components of the blood and the immune system are produced there. By driving the regeneration of the bone marrow and also possessing protective properties, ABM mitigates therapy-induced immune deficiency. Scientific studies have now proven the helpful effect of ABM in abdominal, colon, lung, pancreatic, prostate and liver cancer as well as in brain tumors.

Coriolus

In winter, Coriolus is a valuable companion. By taking it, you prevent colds and influenza. Should you nevertheless fall ill, this medicinal mushroom accelerates the recovery process. Its effect is mainly due to the two glycoproteins PSK (Krestin) and PSP. With them the Coriolus strengthens above all the cellular defense. But it also activates the production of antibodies for more protection against ubiquitous pathogens.

Since the Coriolus medicinal mushroom activates the TH1 system, it strengthens the immune system’s ability to detect and eliminate tumor cells. It has a cytotoxic effect on degenerated cells themselves, which means that it kills them. In addition, the ingredients from coriolus inhibit angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels to supply the tumor. Especially in the case of cervical cancer, the combination of antiviral and antitumor effects of Coriolus has proven effective. Cervical cancer, as well as some other cancers of the reproductive organs, are due to the HP virus. Studies have now shown that HPV-positive findings were negative after one year of taking Coriolus. At the same time, pre-existing lesions on the cervix decrease.

In addition, scientific studies have shown a high effectiveness of the Coriolus medicinal mushroom in the following diseases:
– Bacteria, e.g. E. Coli, Chlamydia and Streptococcus
– Fungi, e.g. Candida
– Influenza viruses
– Epstein-Barr virus
– Cytomegalovirus
– Hepatitis
– Aphthae
– Inflammation of the oral mucosa

Together with the Reishi, the Coriolus also successfully combats Borrelia and the causative agent of shingles (herpes zoster). An advantage is that it is also able to reduce nerve pain. In connection with hepatitis and HIV, Coriolus helps the immune system by lowering the overall viral load and supporting liver function. This reduces the fatigue associated with the disease.

Hericium

The Hericium medicinal mushroom is a benefactor of the intestine. After 80% of the immune system is assigned to the intestine, its health is the basis for a functioning immune defense. Here important immune cells are formed, which are distributed throughout the body and on the mucous membranes. Since the Hericium promotes the structure of the intestinal mucosa, fewer harmful substances pass through. On the one hand, this protects the intestine and on the other hand, it protects the organism from contact with toxins and allergens.

In addition, Hericium contains substances that increase the activity of T- and B-lymphocytes as well as macrophages and other immune cells. It therefore has a great potential to strengthen the immune system naturally. In practice, Hericium has also proven effective in autoimmune diseases and diseases related to the nervous system (e.g. multiple sclerosis). Similarly interesting is its use in influenza, Lyme disease and even hospital germs. The healing chances of those affected can be significantly increased by taking the medicinal mushroom.

Pleurotus

As with Hericium, the effect of Pleurotus also starts at the intestine. It promotes the good probiotic bacteria such as lactobacilli, enterococci and bifidobacteria in the colonization of the intestinal mucosa. Therefore, its intake is particularly recommended after treatment with antibiotics. With the support of Pleurotus, the intestine recovers quickly, which also benefits the immune system.

Polyporus

As we have already mentioned, various regions in the body are fundamentally involved in the functioning of the immune system. The lymphatic system plays a central role. It is responsible for removing pathogens, degenerated body cells and foreign substances from the body. If the lymph gets stuck, congestion can occur in the lymphatic system. Waste products, toxins and many other substances that are harmful to the organism can then no longer be removed. Severe health problems are the result.

Especially cancer patients who have already had lymph nodes removed often have to deal with disorders of the lymphatic system. For them it is extremely helpful that polyporus can naturally strengthen the immune system by stimulating the lymph flow. Its ingredients loosen congestion and thus promote the removal of harmful substances. This in turn makes it easier for the body’s defenses to do their job.

Like all other vital mushrooms, Polyporus also contains highly effective polysaccharides. They modulate the immune system in such a way that it can react appropriately to concrete dangers. In addition, Polyporus has a direct antibacterial effect on certain pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Chlamydia trachomatis. The latter cause painful inflammation in the genital area. In men, there is pain and burning in the urethra. In women, the inflammations also affect the fallopian tubes and uterus. Even cell changes in the cervix can occur as a result of infection.

Maitake

Right after the ABM, the Maitake has the highest concentration of effective polysaccharides. Thus, it is able to effectively regulate the immune system and in particular to weaken a dominant TH2 reaction. In return, it strengthens the TH1 reaction. This mode of action is particularly helpful for allergy sufferers. Because by taking Maitake, the allergic reactions are significantly milder. It is also often recommended for inflammatory diseases of the intestine and for diabetes and obesity – both diseases that weaken the immune system and promote inflammatory processes.

In addition, the polysaccharides from the maitake have a positive influence on the treatment of various cancers. It is therefore often taken as an adjunct to conventional medical procedures. Basically, the Maitake medicinal mushroom is a good choice to strengthen the immune system naturally. In addition to the positive influence of its polysaccharides, it generally activates the cellular defense.

Reishi

Reishi also contains substances that have a balancing effect on the immune system. Its terpenes stimulate both the B cells of the TH1 system and the T cells of TH2. Excessive reactions therefore occur much less frequently during the intake of Reishi. This vital mushroom has proven to be a special support in the therapy of numerous autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or lupus erythematosus. But it can also alleviate the symptoms of neurodermatitis. This was impressively shown in a study on children. Experts attribute its positive effect on allergic reactions such as itching and skin redness primarily to its ability to reduce histamine release.

Reishi counters oxidative stress by activating superoxide dismutase, glutathione S-transferase and laccase. These antioxidant enzymes render free radicals harmless, which primarily prevents cancer, but at the same time also protects the cells of the immune system itself from damage. In addition, there is a stimulating effect on the liver. If the liver makes good progress in detoxifying the body, this automatically relieves the immune system. Similarly, the anti-inflammatory property of the Reishi: Continuous mild inflammations cause permanent stress to our immune system. In the worst case, serious diseases such as arteriosclerosis can result. The ingredients of the Reishi now relieve the inflammation, reduce the risk of secondary diseases and relieve the immune system.

Last but not least, the Reishi can not only strengthen the immune system, but naturally inhibit the spread of viruses and bacteria in the body. In the case of herpes simplex, the vital mushroom even prevents the virus from entering a host cell.

Shiitake

In Asian countries, shiitake has long been recognized as an immunotherapeutic for cancer. Its ingredient lentinan has been proven to inhibit tumor growth. That is why oncologists in Japan have been using it in cancer therapy for years. By also stimulating the release of messenger substances that act against tumor cells and viruses, it supports the organism holistically in the fight against tumors.

The lentinan contained in the shiitake as well as the lenthionine generally promote a rapid as well as targeted immune response. They stimulate the formation of killer cells, T-helper cells, macrophages and leukocytes. Pathogens such as parasites, bacteria or even fungi thus have a much harder time spreading in the body. Vitamin D is also essential for the functioning of the immune system. The vital mushroom, like many other mushrooms, contains ergosterol, a precursor of vitamin D, which is transformed into vitamin D under UV radiation.

Researchers have found that regular intake of shiitake increases the synthesis of immunoglobulins and reduces inflammation. They detected the latter by lower CRP levels in the blood and altered cytokine patterns. In connection with Covid 19, it was also shown in vitro that Lentinan can probably prevent so-called cytokine storms. These are the cause of an acute deterioration of the patient’s state of health, which is associated with serious lung problems. Another positive aspect is that shiitake generally helps the immune system to defend itself against viruses. Thus, it also represents an efficient therapy accompaniment for flu, measles, herpes and HIV.

What is important with vital mushrooms to support the immune system?

So you see, there is a whole range of medicinal mushrooms that strengthen your immune system. Of course, some mushrooms are better suited for prevention, while others have proven themselves in the treatment of certain diseases. To find out which vital mushrooms are ideal for your individual situation, feel free to consult our experts. As people have never exactly the same preconditions, there is a variety of factors to consider before making a selection.

Where can I get suitable medicinal mushrooms?

If you have now clarified in consultation with an expert, which mushrooms are best suited for your health situation, you can purchase appropriate preparations in the trade. There is an almost unmanageable number of suppliers of medicinal mushrooms. To make your choice easier, but also to achieve the best effect for your immune system, we have compiled the most important criteria for your search here:
– Mushrooms from German cultivation
– Medicinal mushrooms from organic cultivation
– Mushroom powder from the whole mushroom
– gently dried (< 40 °C) mushroom powder
– powder filled in capsules

A trustworthy source is essential if you really want to do something good for your health with medicinal mushrooms. Since mushrooms absorb everything like sponges, they must not come into contact with any substances that are hazardous to health during cultivation. In addition, only the powder of the whole mushroom, which has never been exposed to temperatures higher than 40° Celsius, contains all the valuable substances for strengthening your immune system. The capsule form has proven itself, because the powder is better preserved and easier to dose.

How to take vital mushrooms correctly

Medicinal mushrooms are one of the most effective medicines that nature has to offer. However, it would be a misleading to equate their effects with those of conventional medicines. Therefore, you should be prepared to take them for several months or even years. In this way, the active ingredients from the mushrooms can unfold their full power and strengthen your immune system permanently in a natural way. Especially with a preventive intake there is no closed time frame. The time factor is not problematic at all, because medicinal mushrooms do not have any side effects.

Unless you have discussed it with your mycotherapist, take the mushroom capsules promptly before meals. Drink a glass of water or unsweetened tea with it. An immediate interaction with other medications is usually not to be expected. However, if possible, you should leave a few hours between taking the mushroom capsules and your other tablets.