Natura
The immune system: background and a naturopathic view
Especially in the cold season, our bodies are constantly confronted with pathogenic germs. Viruses and bacteria are now in peak season. Avoiding infection can be one way, but in the long term a healthy immune system that specifically fends off such infections is the safest way to maintain good health.
How does the immune system work?
Our immune system is designed to protect us from pathogens. The innate and the acquired immune system work hand in hand. However, the immune system can be weakened. Environmental burdens as well as anxiety and stress put a strain on our bodies, and they can no longer fulfill all of their functions. That is why many people ask themselves how they can take their immune system into account in everyday life.
Avoiding infection and transmission
The top priority in times of widespread viruses should be particular attention to hygiene. In addition to the hygiene rules firmly established in society, this currently includes in particular:
washing your hands regularly
coughing and sneezing into the crook of your elbow to prevent transmission by droplet infection; avoiding handshakes if possible
not touching your face – this happens unconsciously very often, and it takes special attention to “break the habit”
avoiding crowds
avoiding and protecting yourself from other illnesses that cause additional weakness; touching as few objects as possible (outside your own home); keeping your distance, limiting physical contact & hugs
regularly airing closed rooms thoroughly
avoiding social contact with people who are “under the weather” or ill
using tissues only once and disposing of them immediately afterwards
The immune system
The second important pillar, alongside increased hygiene, is each individual's defense against infection through a good immune system. People who belong to a risk group in particular should therefore discuss questions about this with their physician.
Strictly speaking, the immune system consists of two systems, the innate (non-specific) and the acquired (specific). The former recognizes which body cells are affected and destroys them. The acquired immune system, also called the adaptive immune system, analyzes the pathogen and produces precisely matching antibodies. These attach themselves to the pathogen, immobilize it and mark it for breakdown by the innate immune system. The better these two systems work together, the better pathogens can be fought.
Nutrient supply and the immune system
An adequate supply of micro- and macronutrients is the basis of all physiological functions of the body. Naturally, this also applies to the immune system. It is therefore important first to determine whether there is a nutrient deficiency. Of course, in times of frequent infections, certain vitamins, minerals, etc. can also make sense without prior diagnostics, but in principle you should only supplement what is actually lacking.
Nutrients in connection with the immune system:
Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system
The central role that vitamin D plays in the development, activation and regulation of the immune system is a fairly recent discovery and one of the most exciting aspects of current vitamin D research.
Zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system
The trace element zinc is an important component of the body's defenses and is involved in both cellular and humoral defense against infection. In naturopathy, zinc is often discussed in connection with the cold season.
Vitamin C – important for the immune system
Vitamin C also increases iron absorption in the intestine. However, it is probably best known for its properties as an antioxidant and for contributing to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin C also contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is caused by oxygen radicals that can attack the body's cells.
In our practice, we also offer infusions with high-dose vitamin C (and other vitamins and minerals); whether a vitamin C infusion is an option in your individual case is discussed individually. If you have any questions about infusions with high-dose vitamin C or other ingredients, please contact us. We will be happy to advise you individually.
Oxyvenation – intravenous oxygen therapy
Oxyvenation according to Dr. Regelsberger is a naturopathic method in which oxygen is administered intravenously.
We will be happy to discuss the procedure, duration and number of sessions with you individually.
Glutamine and the immune system
In the case of glutamine deficiency, the activity of phagocytes and killer cells decreases, and with it the ability to fight or engulf viruses and bacteria. In short: the immune system runs out of steam.
Lysine is one of the essential amino acids.
A deficiency – regardless of age – can lead to reduced enzyme activity, growth disorders and a weakened immune system.
Probiotics, intestinal bacteria and the immune system
In naturopathy, the intestinal flora is described in connection with the immune system.
What else is relevant for the immune system?
General lifestyle habits are also often discussed in connection with the immune system.
Healthy diet
Choose high-quality foods that are as uncontaminated as possible (organic/Demeter products).
A healthy and balanced diet helps the immune system to have all the nutrients it needs available in sufficient quantities. These include, above all, vitamins, minerals and trace elements.
A special tip are mustard oils (isothiocyanates) in nasturtium and horseradish. In naturopathy, they are traditionally used during the cold season.
It is advisable to eat a varied diet. Sugar, animal fats and meat can take a back seat for a while.
Sleep is often the best medicine
Sufficient sleep is important for our immune system and the defense against pathogens. T cells (= T lymphocytes) play a crucial role in immune defense. However, in order to perform their function, T cells must first bind firmly to their target, for example a virus-infected cell. This binding strength – the adhesion capacity – is apparently influenced by sleep.
Scientists at the University of Tübingen have demonstrated a new mechanism by which our defense system is supported during sleep.
Exercise
If you keep moving, you also keep your immune system going. The well-worn saying that exercise keeps you young also applies to the immune defense. People who lead more active lives improve the body's resilience. The formation of antibodies and immune cells is stimulated. However, too much strain is not good either; after a marathon, for example, the immune system first needs a little time to recover.
Essential oils – a feel-good treatment
These 5 essential oils are frequently used in aromatherapy.
The following aroma oil blends are also suitable for toddlers and kindergarten children:
– 2 drops angelica root (Angelica archangelica)
– 2 drops tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
– 2 drops fine lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
– 2 drops cedar (Cedrus atlantica)
– 2 drops thyme thymol
Aroma bath
– 2 drops lemon
– 3 drops angelica
– 3 drops tea tree
Room fragrance with essential oils
For room fragrancing, essential oils are dispersed into the room air with an electrically operated aroma diffuser. The essential oils lavender, cajeput and thyme are frequently used for this.
Black seed oil
In naturopathy, black seed oil is described in connection with the immune system because of its fatty acid profile.
Emotional strength, inner stillness & meditation
It is important to strengthen yourself emotionally as well. Unfortunately, anxiety also weakens our bodies and makes us more susceptible to infections. So focus on the positive aspects of your life and get help if you are burdened by depressive moods. Regularly going into inner stillness and reflecting on your own tangible truth creates inner peace.
What to do if you have become infected?
As mentioned above, our immune system is designed to fend off pathogens. However, it is advisable to make all your energy available to the immune system. That means bed rest! If you suppress physical reactions such as fever with medication, you can easily overestimate yourself and not take enough rest. When our immune system can use all of our energy, immune cells can work particularly effectively and, in the vast majority of cases, fight the infection well. The positive side of having gone through an illness is then immunity against the specific pathogen through the development of immune memory cells. Memory cells form specific antibodies against antigens of the pathogen. Upon renewed contact, they multiply very quickly and offer specific protection that prevents reinfection.
However, if your symptoms worry you, we advise you to contact your family doctor.
Keep in mind…
Prevention is the best tactic!
Neither panic, exaggerated fear, stress nor trivializing the dangers are or ever have been good advisors.
What matters here are rules of hygiene and a focus on an intact immune system!
If you would like to make an appointment or have any questions, feel free to leave us a message.
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Professionally responsible: Yesha Karmeli, naturopathic practitioner (Heilpraktiker), Natura Heilpraxis Berlin. This text provides general information and does not replace individual advice.
