WELLNESS

Growing immunity with ancient traders

Astragalus slices used in Chinese herbal medicine.

Cold and flu season is upon us. Now is the time to reflect upon the immune system. Immune systems have taken a beating over the past few years, and heading into the winter months brings the promise of new challenges. As the common cold, flu, and other invaders start battering us, it may be time to look upon ancient wisdom to fortify our ability to fight back.

The immune system is a connected network of cells, organs, proteins, and tissues that operate to protect the body from threats, both internal and external. A healthy immune system detects attacks and ultimately eliminates the danger. This process starts when an unknown invader is detected, and “first responders” launch a chemical response. These messengers, called cytokines, cause inflammation.

When an issue is minor, it can be eliminated immediately; however, if the invasion persists, the rest of the system engages in the threat. The response is swift as specialized B cells, and T cells recognize specific proteins called antigens in viruses, bacteria, and cancer cells. B cells produce antibodies that bind to antigens, blocking viruses and bacteria from entering healthy cells or they trigger additional immune defenses. T cells also enter the field of battle. The CD4 Team of cells (AKA Helper Cells) produce antibodies that neutralize an attacker, while the CD8 Team (a.k.a Killer Cells) goes for direct extermination of the invader cell. When the battle is over, a cleanup crew clears out the debris of dead and languishing cells, and the B and T cells produce a memory of the attack. This memory yields a faster response in the future against the same invader; thus, new immunity is born.

Modern methods of boosting the immune system have been well known and well advertised over the past few years; however, one lesser-known way dates back to ancient Chinese traders. These transporters of goods battled against colds and other immune-damaging diseases. Deep in their traveling bags was an herb to aid their fight, astragalus. This versatile herb was the day’s medicine for healing respiratory illness and accelerated the rapid recovery of cuts and bruises. The ancient use of astragalus has now crossed time and space into modern research, demonstrating that it has a wide variety of effects that may support the health and wellness of today’s transportation workers.

The magic in astragalus is believed to come from three components in the plant: saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. While the combination of these components is not unique in the plant kingdom, the ratio and impact of astragalus demonstrates extraordinary uniqueness. Researchers have identified this plant as an adaptogen. Adaptogenic plants have active ingredients that target stress receptors in the body and help it “adapt” to them. According to the Veterans Administration Office of Patient Center Care and Cultural Transformation, adaptogens may influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which stimulates a healthy stress response and can bring the body to a state of internal equilibrium. They can significantly affect immune regulation, digestion, metabolism, and mood. Additionally, adaptogenic plants are generally non-toxic when taken appropriately.

Regarding respiratory infections and lung health, astragalus demonstrates itself as a supporting agent. Studies in both children and adults (Chinese Journal of Tuberculosis and Respiratory Disease, May 1998) show an increase in air volume expelled from the lungs when consumed. Two other animal studies (Am J Med Sci. 2013 Nov & J Ethnopharmacol. 2008 Mar 5) also showed reduced airway inflammation and hyper-responsiveness as well as loosened mucus produced by lung tissue in those with asthma.

While there is little research on astragalus and COVID-19, the Institute of Functional Medicine does identify that the plant has “well-known for its antiviral activity, for its anti-inflammatory properties, for priming the innate immune system, and for reducing NLRP3-mediated inflammation.”

They identify that the plant alkaloid (swainsonine) inhibits the glycosylation necessary for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to attach to human cells”. In other words, COVID may have a more challenging time causing effects on the human body. Astragalus is one of nineteen nutrients and botanicals that the Institute identifies may assist in coping with the onslaught of immune-battering invaders, including COVID-19.

It is important to note that the FDA does not regulate herbs and supplements. Finding a product with quality ingredients and a lack of fillers can be challenging. When purchasing and taking any herbal product, use advice from a medical professional and look for certifications that speak to the quality of the product, like the U.S. Pharmacopeia stamp or Good Manufacturing Practices seal. This can help any ancient plant grow its way into an effective modern-day immune system.

This article is for education only. Nothing in it constitutes medical advice. All medical advice should be sought from a medical professional.

EMILY REIBLEIN

Director-Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) Crowley Logistics

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