Immune Function

Health Condition

Immune Function

  • Andrographis

    Andrographis, with its immune system–enhancing actions, has been shown to reduce the severity of the common cold and may prevent the onset of a cold in healthy people.

    Dose:

    48 to 60 mg andrographolides in two to three divided doses daily
    Andrographis
    ×
    Andrographis extract, either alone or combined with eleuthero extract, has been shown in a double-blind trial to successfully reduce the severity of the common cold.1,2 A double-blind study also suggests andrographis extract may prevent the onset of a cold in healthy people. These actions are thought to be due to the immune system enhancing actions of the active constituents known as andrographolides and eleutherosides,3,4 respectively.

  • Multivitamin

    Taking a daily multivitamin can help prevent deficiencies that make you a target for infections.

    Dose:

    Follow label directions
    Multivitamin
    ×

  • Vitamin E

    Vitamin E enhances some measures of immune-cell activity in the elderly.

    Dose:

    200 IU daily
    Vitamin E
    ×

    Most,5,6 but not all,7 double-blind studies have shown that elderly people have better immune function and reduced infection rates when taking a multiple vitamin-mineral formula. In one double-blind trial, supplements of 100 mcg per day of selenium and 20 mg per day of zinc, with or without additional vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, reduced infections in elderly people, though vitamins without minerals had no effect.8 Burn victims have also experienced fewer infections after receiving trace mineral supplements in double-blind research.9 These studies suggest that trace minerals may be the most important micronutrients for enhancing immunity and preventing infections in the elderly.

  • Ashwagandha

    Ashwagandha stimulates the immune system and is considered a tonic or adaptogen—an herb with multiple actions that counteract the effects of stress and generally promote wellness.

    Dose:

    3 to 6 grams daily of the dried root as tea or in a capsule
    Ashwagandha
    ×
    Ashwagandha is considered a general stimulant of the immune system,10 and has been called a tonic or adaptogen11—an herb with multiple, nonspecific actions that counteract the effects of stress and generally promote wellness. More research is needed to better evaluate these claims.

  • Asian Ginseng

    Asian ginseng has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for preventing and treating conditions related to the immune system.

    Dose:

    100 mg of a standardized extract twice per day
    Asian Ginseng
    ×
    Asian ginseng has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for preventing and treating conditions related to the immune system. A double-blind study of healthy people found that taking 100 mg of a standardized extract of Asian ginseng twice per day improved immune function.12

  • Beta-Carotene

    Beta-carotene has been shown to increase immune cell numbers and activity. It has also been shown to enhance cancer-fighting immune functions in healthy people.

    Dose:

    25,000 to 100,000 IU per day for nonsmokers only
    Beta-Carotene
    ×

    Caution: Synthetic beta-carotene has been linked to increased risk of lung cancer in smokers. Until more is known, smokers should avoid all beta-carotene supplements.

    Most,13,14 but not all,15 double-blind studies have shown that elderly people have better immune function and reduced infection rates when taking a multiple vitamin-mineral formula. In one double-blind trial, supplements of 100 mcg per day of selenium and 20 mg per day of zinc, with or without additional vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, reduced infections in elderly people, though vitamins without minerals had no effect.16 Burn victims have also experienced fewer infections after receiving trace mineral supplements in double-blind research.17 These studies suggest that trace minerals may be the most important micronutrients for enhancing immunity and preventing infections in the elderly.

    Beta-carotene and other carotenoids have increased immune cell numbers and activity in animal and human research, an effect that appears to be separate from their role as precursors to vitamin A.18,19 Placebo-controlled research has shown positive benefits of beta-carotene supplements in increasing numbers of some white blood cells and enhancing cancer-fighting immune functions in healthy people at 25,000–100,000 IU per day.20,21

    In double-blind trials in the elderly, supplementation with 40,000–150,000 IU per day of beta-carotene has increased natural killer (NK) cell activity,22 but not several other measures of immunity.23

    Controlled research has found that 50,000 IU per day of beta-carotene boosted immunity in people with colon cancer but in not those with precancerous conditions in the colon.24 Beta-carotene has also prevented immune suppression from ultraviolet light exposure.25 Effects on immunodefiency in HIV-positive people have been inconsistent using beta-carotene.26,27

  • Echinacea

    Studies have found that echinacea stimulates the function of a variety of immune cells, particularly natural killer cells. Taking it appears to speed recovery from the common cold.

    Dose:

    3 to 5 ml of liquid extract three times per day
    Echinacea
    ×
    In general, human studies have found that echinacea taken orally stimulates the function of a variety of immune cells, particularly natural killer cells.28 The balance of evidence currently available from studies suggests that echinacea speeds recovery from the common cold, via immune stimulation (as opposed to killing the cold virus directly).29 Evidence on preventing the common cold with echinacea is largely negative, suggesting its immune-stimulating activity may be mild in generally healthy people. Other studies on oral echinacea have not found that it stimulates activity of the white blood cells known as neutrophils.30 Many doctors recommend 3 to 5 ml of tincture three times per day for up to two weeks to improve immune function. Echinacea in capsule form is also commonly available.

  • Eleuthero

    Eleuthero has historically been used to support the immune system.

    Dose:

    10 ml of tincture three times per day
    Eleuthero
    ×
    Eleuthero (Siberian ginseng) has also historically been used to support the immune system. Preliminary Russian research has supported this traditional use.31 A double-blind study has shown that healthy people who take 10 ml of eleuthero tincture three times per day had an increase in certain T lymphocytes important to normal immune function. These effects have not been studied in people with lowered immune function. The amount of eleuthero used in this trial is exceptionally high, though no side effects were seen.

  • Probiotics

    Probiotics help stimulate the intestine’s immune system and slow the growth of infectious organisms.

    Dose:

    10 billion colony-forming units a day of acidophilus or bifidobacteria-only for intestinal infections
    Probiotics
    ×
    Supplements of probiotics (friendly bacteria) such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, or the growth factors that encourage their development in the gastrointestinal tract may help protect the body from harmful organisms in the intestine that cause local or systemic infection according to published research,32,33 including controlled34 trials. The effective amount of probiotics depends on the strain used, as well as the number of viable organisms. Infectious diarrhea in children has been successfully reduced with supplements of friendly bacteria in several trials, some of which were double-blind.35,36

  • Selenium

    Selenium supplements have been reported to help improve immune function in seniors.

    Dose:

    100 mcg daily with 20 mg zinc daily
    Selenium
    ×

    Most,37,38 but not all,39 double-blind studies have shown that elderly people have better immune function and reduced infection rates when taking a multiple vitamin-mineral formula. In one double-blind trial, supplements of 100 mcg per day of selenium and 20 mg per day of zinc, with or without additional vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, reduced infections in elderly people, though vitamins without minerals had no effect.40 Burn victims have also experienced fewer infections after receiving trace mineral supplements in double-blind research.41 These studies suggest that trace minerals may be the most important micronutrients for enhancing immunity and preventing infections in the elderly.

  • Thymus Extracts

    The thymus gland is responsible for many immune system functions. A thymus extract known as Thymomodulin has been shown to improve immune function in some people.

    Dose:

    1 to 1.5 mg thymus polypeptides per 2.2 lbs body weight
    Thymus Extracts
    ×
    The thymus gland is responsible for many immune system functions. Preliminary studies suggest that a thymus extract known as Thymomodulin® may improve immune function, and double-blind trials in children and adults with a history of recurrent respiratory-tract infections have found reduced numbers of recurrent infections with Thymomodulin supplementation.42,43,44,45,46 Thymomodulin has also been shown in a double-blind study to improve immune function in cases of exercise-induced immune suppression, and in preliminary studies to improve immune function in people with diabetes and in elderly people.47,48,49,50

  • Vitamin A

    Vitamin A plays an important role in immune system function and helps mucous membranes, including those in the lungs, resist invasion by microorganisms.

    Dose:

    Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner
    Vitamin A
    ×

    Vitamin A plays an important role in immune system function and helps mucous membranes, including those in the lungs, resist invasion by microorganisms.51 However, most research shows that while vitamin A supplementation helps people prevent or treat infections in developing countries where deficiencies are common,52 little to no positive effect, and even slight adverse effects, have resulted from giving vitamin A supplements to people in countries where most people consume adequate amounts of vitamin A.53,54,55,56,57,58,59 Moreover, vitamin A supplementation during infections appears beneficial only in certain diseases. An analysis of trials revealed that vitamin A reduces mortality from measles and diarrhea, but not from pneumonia, in children living in developing countries.60 A double-blind trial of vitamin A supplementation in Tanzanian children with pneumonia confirmed its lack of effectiveness for this condition.61 In general, parents in the developed world should not give vitamin A supplements to children unless there is a reason to believe vitamin A deficiency is likely, such as the presence of a condition causing malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease). However, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children with measles be given short-term supplementation with high-dose vitamin A in cases of hospitalization, malnutrition, and other special circumstances determined by a doctor.62

    A combination of antioxidants vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E significantly improved immune cell number and activity compared with placebo in a group of hospitalized elderly people.63 Daily intake of a 1,000 mg vitamin C plus 200 IU vitamin E for four months improved several measures of immune function in a preliminary study.64 To what extent immune-boosting combinations of antioxidants actually reduce the risk of infection remains unknown.

  • Vitamin C

    Vitamin C stimulates the immune system. While taking it has only a small effect in preventing colds, it does significantly reduce the duration of a cold when taken at the onset.

    Dose:

    Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner
    Vitamin C
    ×

    Most,65,66 but not all,67 double-blind studies have shown that elderly people have better immune function and reduced infection rates when taking a multiple vitamin-mineral formula. In one double-blind trial, supplements of 100 mcg per day of selenium and 20 mg per day of zinc, with or without additional vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, reduced infections in elderly people, though vitamins without minerals had no effect.68 Burn victims have also experienced fewer infections after receiving trace mineral supplements in double-blind research.69 These studies suggest that trace minerals may be the most important micronutrients for enhancing immunity and preventing infections in the elderly.

    Vitamin C stimulates the immune system by both elevating interferon levels70 and enhancing the activity of certain immune cells.71,72 Two studies came to opposite conclusions about the ability of vitamin C to improve immune function in the elderly,73,74 and two other studies did not agree on whether vitamin C could protect people from hepatitis.75,76 However, a review of 20 double-blind studies concluded that while several grams of vitamin C per day has only a small effect in preventing colds, when taken at the onset of a cold, it does significantly reduce the duration of a cold.77 In controlled reports studying people doing heavy exercise, cold frequency was reduced an average of 50% with vitamin C supplements ranging from 600 to 1,000 mg per day.78 Thus, the overall effect of vitamin C on immune function is unclear, and its usefulness may vary according to the situation.

    A combination of antioxidants vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E significantly improved immune cell number and activity compared with placebo in a group of hospitalized elderly people.79 Daily intake of a 1,000 mg vitamin C plus 200 IU vitamin E for four months improved several measures of immune function in a preliminary study.80 To what extent immune-boosting combinations of antioxidants actually reduce the risk of infection remains unknown.

  • Astragalus

    Complex polysaccharides in astragalus affect the immune system. One study showed that astragalus elevate antibody levels in healthy people.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Astragalus
    ×
    Complex polysaccharides present in astragalus and in maitake and coriolus mushrooms appear to act as “immunomodulators” and, as such, are being researched for their potential role in AIDS and cancer. Presently, the only human studies on astragalus indicate that it can prevent white blood cell numbers from falling in people given chemotherapy and radiotherapy and can elevate antibody levels in healthy people.81 Maitake has only been studied in animals as a way to increase immune function.82 The primary immuno-activating polysaccharide found in these mushrooms, beta-D-glucan, is well absorbed when taken orally83 and is currently under investigation as a supportive tool for HIV infection. Results from future research will improve the understanding of the possible benefits of these mushrooms and their constituents.

  • Beta-Glucan

    Beta-glucan activates white blood cells, which in turn can recognize and kill tumor cells, correct oxidative damage, and speed up recovery of damaged tissue.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Beta-Glucan
    ×
    Beta-glucan is a fiber-type polysaccharide (complex sugar) derived from the cell wall of baker’s yeast, oat and barley fiber, and many medicinal mushrooms, such as maitake. Numerous experimental studies in test tubes and animals have shown beta-glucan to activate white blood cells.84,85,86,87,88 In fact, there have been hundreds of research papers on beta-glucan since the 1960s.89 The research indicates that beta-1,3-glucan, in particular, is very effective at activating white blood cells known as macrophages and neutrophils. A beta-glucan–activated macrophage or neutrophil can recognize and kill tumor cells, remove cellular debris resulting from oxidative damage, speed up recovery of damaged tissue, and further activate other components of the immune system.90,91 Although the research in test tube and animal studies is promising, many questions remain about the effectiveness of beta-glucan as an oral supplement to enhance immune function in humans. Controlled trials are necessary to determine whether humans can benefit from beta-glucan, and in what amounts oral beta-glucan must be taken from meaningful effects.

  • Cat’s Claw

    Substances found in cat’s claw, called oxyindole alkaloids, have been shown to stimulate the immune system.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Cat’s Claw
    ×
    Substances found in cat’s claw, called oxyindole alkaloids have been shown to stimulate the immune system.92 However, little is known about whether this effect is sufficient to prevent or treat disease.

  • Cordyceps

    Cordyceps has immune-strengthening actions and may be helpful in a wide range of conditions in which the immune system is weakened.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Cordyceps
    ×
    Cordyceps has immune strengthening actions in human and animal studies.93,94 Further research is needed but it may be helpful in a wide range of conditions in which the immune system is weakened. The usual amount taken is 3 to 4.5 grams twice daily as capsules or simmered for 10 to 15 minutes in water for tea.

  • DHEA

    Supplementing with the hormone DHEA may improve immune functioning.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    DHEA
    ×
    The hormone DHEA affects immunity. In a controlled trial, a group of elderly men with low DHEA levels who were given a high level of DHEA (50 mg per day) for 20 weeks, experienced a significant activation of immune function.95 Postmenopausal women have also shown increased immune functioning in just three weeks when given DHEA in double-blind research.96

  • Fo-Ti

    Preliminary research suggests that fo-ti plays a role in a strong immune system and has antibacterial action.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Fo-Ti
    ×
    Preliminary research suggests that plays a role in a strong immune system and has antibacterial action. More research is needed to further understand the potential importance of these effects.

  • Green Tea

    Green tea has stimulated production of immune cells and has shown anti-bacterial properties in some studies.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Green Tea
    ×
    Green tea has stimulated production of immune cells and has shown anti-bacterial properties in animal studies.97,98,99 More research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of green tea in protecting against infection and other immune system-related diseases.

  • Ligustrum

    Ligustrum appears to stimulate the immune system and is often combined with astragalus in traditional Chinese medicine.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Ligustrum
    ×
    The main active compound in ligustrum is ligustrin (oleanolic acid). Studies, mostly conducted in China, suggest that ligustrum stimulates the immune system.100 Ligustrum is often combined with astragalus in traditional Chinese medicine. Although used for long-term support of the immune system in people with depressed immune function or cancer, more research is needed to demonstrate the optimal length of time to use ligustrum.

  • Lycopene

    Large amounts of the carotenoid lycopene have been shown to increase the activity of natural killer cells in the elderly.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Lycopene
    ×
    Large amounts of the carotenoid lycopene have been shown to increase the activity of NK cells in the elderly. In a controlled trial, 15 mg of lycopene significantly increased NK cell concentration, but no other immune functions.101

  • Maitake

    Complex polysaccharides present in maitake appear to increase immune function.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Maitake
    ×
    Complex polysaccharides present in astragalus and in maitake and coriolus mushrooms appear to act as “immunomodulators” and, as such, are being researched for their potential role in AIDS and cancer. Presently, the only human studies on astragalus indicate that it can prevent white blood cell numbers from falling in people given chemotherapy and radiotherapy and can elevate antibody levels in healthy people.102 Maitake has only been studied in animals as a way to increase immune function.103 The primary immuno-activating polysaccharide found in these mushrooms, beta-D-glucan, is well absorbed when taken orally104 and is currently under investigation as a supportive tool for HIV infection. Results from future research will improve the understanding of the possible benefits of these mushrooms and their constituents.

  • Noni

    Studies show noni to have some immune-enhancing activity.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Noni
    ×

    Animal and test tube studies show noni to have some immune-enhancing activity. Specifically, the polysaccharide component has been shown to increase the release of immune-enhancing compounds that activate white blood cells to destroy tumor cells.105 The usual recommendation is 4 ounces of noni juice 30 minutes before breakfast (effectiveness is thought to be best on an empty stomach). Human studies are needed to confirm the usefulness of noni.

  • Vitamin B12

    A deficiency of vitamin B12 has been associated with decreased immune function. Restoring vitamin B12 levels may improve levels of immune cells.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Vitamin B12
    ×
    A deficiency of vitamin B12 has been associated with decreased immune function. In a controlled trial, people with vitamin B12 deficiency anemia were also found to have markedly decreased levels of white blood cells associated with immune function.106 Restoration of vitamin B12 stores by means of injections improved levels of these immune cells, suggesting an important role for vitamin B12 in immune function.

  • Whey Protein

    Whey protein appears to improve some aspects of immune function. One trial showed that whey protein increased blood glutathione levels in a group of HIV-infected people.

    Dose:

    Refer to label instructions
    Whey Protein
    ×

    A double-blind trial showed that 45 grams per day of whey protein increased blood glutathione levels in a group of HIV-infected people.107 Test tube108,109 and animal110 studies suggest that whey protein may improve some aspects of immune function.

  • Zinc

    Zinc supplements have been reported to increase immune function. Some doctors recommend zinc supplements for people with recurrent infections.

    Dose:

    25 mg daily
    Zinc
    ×

    Most,111,112 but not all,113 double-blind studies have shown that elderly people have better immune function and reduced infection rates when taking a multiple vitamin-mineral formula. In one double-blind trial, supplements of 100 mcg per day of selenium and 20 mg per day of zinc, with or without additional vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, reduced infections in elderly people, though vitamins without minerals had no effect.114 Burn victims have also experienced fewer infections after receiving trace mineral supplements in double-blind research.115 These studies suggest that trace minerals may be the most important micronutrients for enhancing immunity and preventing infections in the elderly.

    Zinc supplements have been reported to increase immune function.116,117 This effect may be especially important in the elderly according to double-blind studies.118,114 Some doctors recommend zinc supplements for people with recurrent infections, suggesting 25 mg per day for adults and lower amounts for children (depending on body weight). However, too much zinc (300 mg per day) has been reported to impair immune function.120

    While zinc lozenges have been shown to be effective for reducing the symptoms and duration of the common cold in some controlled studies, it is not clear whether this effect is due to an enhancement of immune function or to the direct effect of zinc on the viruses themselves.121

What Are Star Ratings
×
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Holistic Options

The immune system is suppressed during times of stress. Chronic mental and emotional stress can reduce immune function, but whether this effect is sufficient to increase the risk of infection or cancer is less clear.121,122 Nevertheless, immune function has been increased by stress-reducing techniques such as relaxation exercises, biofeedback, and other approaches,123,124 although not all studies have shown a significant effect.125

References

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2. Coon JT, Ernst E. Andrographis paniculata in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections: a systematic review of safety and efficacy. Planta Med 2004;70:293-98.

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7. Chavance M, Herbeth B, Lemoine A, et al. Does multivitamin supplementation prevent infections in healthy elderly subjects? A controlled trial.Int.J Vitam Nutr Res 1993;63:11-6.

8. Girodon F, Lombard M, Galan P, et al. Effect of micronutrient supplementation on infection in institutionalized elderly subjects: a controlled trial. Ann Nutr Metab 1997;41:98-107.

9. Berger MM, Spertini F, Shenkin A, et al. Trace element supplementation modulates pulmonary infection rates after major burns: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr 1998;68:365-71.

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11. Bone K. Clinical Applications of Ayurvedic and Chinese Herbs. Queensland, Australia: Phytotherapy Press, 1996, 137-41.

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38. Chandra RK. Effect of vitamin and trace-element supplementation on immune responses and infection in elderly subjects. Lancet 1992;340:1124-7.

39. Chavance M, Herbeth B, Lemoine A, et al. Does multivitamin supplementation prevent infections in healthy elderly subjects? A controlled trial.Int.J Vitam Nutr Res 1993;63:11-6.

40. Girodon F, Lombard M, Galan P, et al. Effect of micronutrient supplementation on infection in institutionalized elderly subjects: a controlled trial. Ann Nutr Metab 1997;41:98-107.

41. Berger MM, Spertini F, Shenkin A, et al. Trace element supplementation modulates pulmonary infection rates after major burns: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr 1998;68:365-71.

42. Fiocchi A, Borella E, Riva E, et al. Double-blind clinical trial for the evaluation of the therapeutical effectiveness of a calf thymus derivative (Thymomodulin) in children with recurrent respiratory infections. Thymus 1986;8:331-9.

43. Galli L, de Martino M, Azzari C, et al. Preventive effect of thymomodulin in recurrent respiratory infections in children. Pediatr Med Chir 1990;12:229-32.

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48. Wysocki J, Wierusz-Wysocka B, Wykretowicz A, Wysocki H. The influence of thymus extracts on the chemotaxis of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) from patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDD). Thymus 1992;20:63-7.

49. Calsini P, Mocchegiani E, Fabris N. The pharmacodynamics of thymomodulin in elderly humans. Drugs Exp Clin Res 1985;11:671-4.

50. Braga PC, Dal Sasso M, Maci S, et al. Restoration of polymorphonuclear leukocyte function in elderly subjects by thymomodulin. J Chemother 1994;6:354-9.

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