Immune system – the primary defense mechanism

Two different immune responses

The immune system consists of immune organs, tissues, cells, and molecules that are interconnected to fight off external or internal threats. There are two main types of immune responses: innate immunity and adaptive immunity, and both are essential for health and survival:

The innate immune system

Humans and animals are born with the innate immune system. Its primary purpose is to prevent the spread of harmful agents by attacking them with cells such as scavenger cells called phagocytes (or macrophages) and releasing numerous molecules (e.g., signaling molecules, antiviral compounds) that further assist and regulate the innate immune response. The innate immune system is the first to respond when it finds an invader. The line of defense includes the skin, the eye's cornea, and the mucous membrane that lines the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts. These physical barriers protect the body against harmful germs, parasites, or cells (such as cancer). If the pathogen manages to pass the innate immune system, the adaptive immunity kicks in.

The adaptive immune system

The adaptive immune system develops during its lifetime in response to exposure to infections and toxins. Together with the innate system, it produces unique proteins (called antibodies) to recognize and kill harmful agents with which the body has previously come into contact. These antibodies are made by B lymphocytes cells after the body has been exposed to the intruder. The adaptive immune system is constantly learning and adapting, and therefore, the body can also fight bacteria or viruses that change over time. It builds up a library of antibodies to different pathogens, sometimes called immunological memory.

Both immune responses are interconnected and play a critical role in defense against infections.

The effects of a strong immune system

The immune system is a highly complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that researchers are still working to understand. However, the reasons for having a strong immune system speak for themselves.

Fewer sick days

The first and most obvious benefit of having a strong immune system is being less susceptible to viruses and bacteria because the body fights them off effectively. This, in return, means fewer sick days.

Less medication

Especially during the flu season, most people tend to take synthetic medication to fight off colds. But unlike natural medicine, synthetic medications are often accompanied by various side effects. 

Milder symptoms

A strong immune response in the early stages of a cold or flu-like infection can reduce the illness's length and the severity of its symptoms.

Better for the body

Both the innate and the adaptive immune responses need to be well balanced. An effective immune system relies on a regulated immune response to successfully eliminate viral infections without harming the body.

Pharmacological approach

In terms of boosting the immune system, pharmacological treatments are rare and not the common choice. Immunotherapy, for example, is a type of cancer treatment that helps boost the immune system’s response to cancer cells. Other synthetic medications are prescribed when viruses or bacteria weaken the immune system. Most mild viral respiratory illnesses are managed symptomatically with these medications but not to boost the immune system. Some healthcare providers may recommend vitamins and supplements to boost the immune system. Vitamin C, B6, and E are the most common. However, these vitamins are already available in a healthy diet. And some supplements may cause side effects, especially when taking them in combination with other medicines. The effects of many supplements haven’t been tested in children, pregnant women, and other groups.

Natural medicine approach

Several other non-prescription plant-based medications are used for fighting off viral infections and the common cold, not just for treatment but also for prevention. The most common natural ingredient is Echinacea, also known as the coneflower. Several studies have provided some positive results in effectiveness; however, at the same time, other clinical trials reported no effect compared with placebo. Since the data are conflicting in some areas and there is a lack of consistency concerning the Echinacea species, organs, and preparations used in each study, comparisons between trials are complicated.^8-10 

Other natural ingredients such as Swallowwort and Sulfur, especially in combination, affect the immune system by enhancing and supporting the body’s endogenous defense mechanisms. Studies have shown that certain natural medications with these ingredients stimulate the immune system to produce antiviral compounds, known as interferons which play a significant role in regulating immune responses.¹¹