The COVID-19 pandemic has had a massive effect on a wide range of industries and on the way people live their lives. One small effect the pandemic has had is an increased interest in various supplements and natural products as people look to boost their immunity and general health in a sustainable way.
Here are a few examples of some of the supplements that are beneficial for protecting the body against viruses like COVID-19:
- Andrographis: This herb native to southeast Asia has leaves and other parts that are frequently used in Ayurvedic, Thai and Chinese medicine to provide relief from symptoms associated with the flu, the common cold and various respiratory infections. Andrographis has antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects and helps to stimulate the immune system. There are no safety concerns associated with using the herb as a supplement.
- Elderberry: Elderberries are fruit from the European elder or black elder tree that grows in North America, Europe and various parts of Asia and Africa. Elderberry features a variety of beneficial compounds with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents and antiviral and antimicrobial effects. These compounds include phenolic acids, flavonols and anthocyanins.
- Echinacea: Also referred to as purple coneflower, echinacea grows in North America and Europe, and is often blended with extracts from other plants and species for supplements. It features polyacetylenes, polysaccharides, aklomides, phenolic compounds and glycoproteins, among other beneficial substances. Some studies indicate the substance has antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which make it ideal for protecting the body against the effects of a virus like COVID-19.
- Melatonin: Melatonin is a hormone produced by the brain’s pineal gland that helps to regulate circadian rhythms and improve sleep. However, melatonin has also been used in supplement forms over the years, not just to help people get a restful night’s sleep, but also for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that have shown up in various studies. No evidence indicates melatonin helps prevent or treat COVID-19, but researchers have been studying the potential for it to do so because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Ginseng: There are several clinical studies that have looked into whether ginseng can help upper respiratory tract infections, but there have been mixed results. At the very least, this herb that grows in China and Korea has a variety of other health benefits that make it a great addition to a supplementary regimen.
- Omega 3 fatty acids: Studies into the efficacy of omega 3s did show that people who took the supplement more than three times a week for at least three months were at a 12 percent lower risk of SARS-Cov2 infection. There were similar findings produced in studies in the United States, the United Kingdom and Sweden.
It is important to note that the research into the effectiveness of various supplements and substances for protection against COVID-19 is rapidly evolving, given the novel nature of the virus. For more information about the health benefits of various common supplements and products to use during the COVID-19 pandemic, contact A Gift of Health today.