Support Your Immune System Botanically Pt II

Plants are powerful. Their robust phytochemicals and phytocompounds are biologically designed to signal, stimulate, and activate health benefits throughout the body. Of particular importance for short- and long-term health is how the immune system feeds off plants’ compounds and nutrients to keep its interconnected cells, proteins, tissues, and organs synchronized and functioning cooperatively.

In Part I of Support Your Immune System Botanically we began our farm tour of SHIELD Immune Supporting Hemp Extract’s potent eastern and western herbs, terpenes, and hemp-based cannabinoids. From echinacea and garlic to CBG and oil of oregano, we researched and selected this group of plants for their natural capabilities of fortifying immune health and protecting total-body wellness. Below, we continue our tour of SHIELD’s botanical ingredients, breaking down their backgrounds and how they specifically support immune health.

Elderberry

Blooming from the European elder tree or Sambucus, elderberry is packed with antioxidants and vitamins. Elderberry is one of the earliest botanical remedies used to support immune system health and ease cold and flu symptoms like chills, fatigue, congestion and sore throat. A 2019 study revealed to researchers that elderberry compounds stimulate cells and promote the release of cytokines—chemical messengers—that the immune system relies on to communicate to different system cells to coordinate an efficient response against pathogen invaders. Experts also suggest that elderberry helps tame body discomfort, lessens stress, and aids heart health. It’s also adds a delightfully sweet taste to SHIELD.

CBG

A spotlight ingredient in SHIELD, CBG (cannabigerol) from hemp benefits the immune system and general health in a number of ways.

CBG directly activates the body’s endocannabinoid system’s (ECS) CB2 receptors that are located primarily on the immune system. This ECS activation helps create a stable and balanced environment for your immune system to thrive and supports its role of guarding your health and well-being.

Research has begun to conclude that CBG—also known as the “stem-cell phytocannabinoid”—boasts neuroprotective properties that help restore and sustain nervous system health. With antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, and antimicrobial properties, CBG helps balance and improve gut health and supports immune cell functionality. Additionally, CBG boosts anandamide levels—the endocannabinoid that promotes an increase of dopamine levels. This strengthening helps to brighten mood, balance appetite, and promotes sleep cycles—all areas of wellness that are known to keep you well.

CBG (cannabigerol) is a non-psychoactive hemp phytocannabinoid that plays an important role in the biochemistry of industrial hemp plants. CBG is a precursor or parent compound to most other phytocannabinoids, including CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). CBG occurs in the hemp plant in small amounts and is more prevalent in hemp strains that are not fully matured. Because industrial hemp plants are known to produce only trace amounts of CBG, we take sophisticated measures to extract CBG for its use in our specially formulated hemp extracts, like SHIELD.

Olive Leaf Oil

Green olive branch and a spoon full of oil on the wooden table

Native to the Mediterranean and Asia, extract from the leaves of olive trees helps enhance immune system function. Specifically, as an immunostimulant, olive leaf activates immune responses and increases activity when necessary. Its bitter properties help to modulate the parasympathetic nervous system—promoting states of rest and regeneration.

Skullcap

The name may sound a bit unpleasant, but Chinese Skullcap’s benefits are anything but. Widely used in Eastern medicine for centuries, oil from Skullcap flowering plant is known to balance beneficial inflammatory responses in the immune and respiratory systems, and—as an immunomodulator—helps activate appropriate and coordinated immune responses to varying threats.

Spearmint Oil

Spearmint’s benefits range far further than as a flavor for gum and mouthwash. A traditional herb, spearmint contains relaxant properties that help soothe the GI tract and respiratory system, and helps clear heat and congestion. Its anti-inflammatory properties have been documented to help settle nausea and optimize digestion. Spearmint’s antibacterial components help fight infection and limit their strain on energy levels.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that are critical to enhancing immune function against infection. In addition to promoting growth and development, and maintaining vision, this micronutrient helps to regulate cellular immune responses and humoral immune responses—which signal to antibodies to attack harmful pathogens.

To read Support Your Immune System Botanically Pt III tap here.

References

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