The Immune System: The War against Germs

By Steve Marmor, herbalist, iridologist, nutritional consultant

The body’s immune system is made up of lymph nodes, anti-bodies and specialized white blood cells, as well as the organs that produce these cells and the lymphatic vessels that transport them. Together they act as an army—ready to fend off attacking microorganisms and invading pollutants. We may not even be aware of it but our immune system is hard at work daily—protecting us from billions of foreign invaders anxious to wage war on our bodies.

Our lymph nodes produce and house the “soldiers” or immune cells that defend the body.  As lymph fluid passes through the lymph nodes, invading organisms are filtered out and destroyed as the lymph fluid exits the lymph nodes, it picks up fresh immune cells that can be circulated throughout the body to where they are needed most by a network of lymph vessels. This efficient system of defending against unwanted invaders is truly amazing, but it requires care.

The immune system can be likened to a bank account.  Each day, we have the option to make deposits or withdrawals to this “account” based on our choices. Factors that can either deplete or fill this immunity account include stress management, food choices, sleep habits, water intake and source of water, mental attitudes, exercise and exposure to toxins.

In addition to making healthy diet and lifestyle choices, adding quality immune-boosting herbal supplements can help immensely! One of the great herbal combinations available from Herbs & More in Encinitas, Ca. 760 753-7272, is called Immune Stimulator. This herbal combination protects the integrity of DNA while stimulating the body’s natural defense against unfriendly invaders. In addition, this formula activates your own immune response for times when  “high- alert”  is desired or needed.

Best health…