Nicole Berrios, L.Ac.
5 Easy Ways to Naturally Boost Immunity

We all hope to have strong and healthy bodies and immune systems, and with a global pandemic this has never been more true. Washing your hands, masking up and maintaining a 6 foot distance from others can’t be the only thing you can do to prevent illness, right? Of course not!
The human body is an amazing organism that is perfectly capable of being strengthened when given the right tools to do so. And the best part is that it can be done naturally, easily and very affordably. No need for costly medical interventions, just some simple tools that can go a long way towards building up your immune system.
So without further ado, here are 5 easy steps you can take to naturally boost your immune system starting today!
1- Take a Vitamin D Supplement
Many people people think of Vitamin C when it comes to immunity, but as a preventative measure, taking a Vitamin D supplement is really where it’s at. Vitamin D works to reduce your risk of infectious disease by boosting your innate immune system.
It activates key peptides in the immune system to trigger a strong antimicrobial response that allows your body to quickly fight off pathogens. It has also been shown to reduce the frequency of viral upper respiratory tract infections. Studies have shown that people with lower blood levels of Vitamin D are more susceptible to seasonal influenza, the common cold and COVID-19 as well.
Therefore, I highly recommend that everybody get on a Vitamin D supplement, STAT! Vitamin D3 in particular is more recognizable by the body and will help to boost your blood levels more effectively. Be sure to work with your doctor to determine how much of this essential vitamin you should be taking.
2- Bone Broth
Fun fact: it is estimated that up to 80% of the immune cells in the human body reside in the gut and digestive system. Since this is where the majority of your immune cells hang out, it makes sense that your digestive system should be a favorable environment to these cells. For various reasons, lots of people have compromised gut health, which can lead to many issues with the immune system (including autoimmune issues).
Consuming bone broth is a wonderful and simple way to help heal the gut, allowing the immune cells to thrive. Rich in the amino acid glutamine, bone broth is nourishing, easy for the body to absorb and very healing. Consuming one cup of bone broth daily either on its own or mixed into foods (such as soups, rice dishes, etc.) is a great way to naturally boost your immune system.
3- Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a species known as fungi and are considered a functional food. All mushrooms contain beta glucans, which are compounds that help fight inflammation and benefit the immune system. Mushrooms help to prime the human immune system, making it more effective in responding to potential infections.
There are many different kinds of safely edible mushrooms, but some of the most common ones you can eat for immune boosting effects are shiitake, reishi, chaga, lion’s mane and turkey tail. Try adding some of these mushrooms to your diet for a powerful immune boost.
4- Elderberry
This mythical sounding berry is very high in Vitamin C, dietary fiber and antioxidants, which makes elderberries fantastic for boosting immune function. Consuming elderberries has also been shown to reduce the length and severity of influenza and may improve symptoms of sinusitis and bronchitis, while increasing the amount of white blood cells (immune cells) in the body.
Elderberry typically comes in syrup and lozenge form and is a great way to prevent sickness during cold and flu season. Take elderberry as a preventative measure to naturally boost your immune system. Great for kids to take as well, especially in syrup form as it’s tasty.
5- Essential Oils
Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants that capture the plant’s scent, or essence. The aromas from these oils are used for their many beneficial effects and can help to boost the immune system by actively stimulating the body’s production of white blood cells, while also acting as antiseptics against bacteria and viruses.
Many essential oils contain antiviral and antibacterial compounds, but some of the most common ones are:
Clary sage
Tea tree
Lavender
Thieve's oil (a blend of several different oils)
Diffuse oils in your home or wear them on your body like a perfume to get a natural immune boost all throughout the day. Plus, enjoy the wonderful scents of them as a bonus!
The Bottom Line
You now have 5 tools to stash away in your toolbox to help you naturally boost your immune system. Give them a consistent try and feel more confident going through the world in good health.