The content of herbal medicines that can improve your body's endurance

Some studies say herbal products have certain ingredients that are beneficial to health. Find out what other ingredients are commonly found in herbal medicines that can increase your immune system. Herbal medicine generally consists of ingredients that are not much different from the fruit, vegetables, or herbs that you usually use as ingredients, food seasonings, or drinks. Herbal products are included in food supplements that are available in liquid, pill, capsule or tablet form, and act as additives to your diet, not as a substitute for food. Here are some herbal ingredients that have been proven to have health benefits based on the large number of studies conducted on them, namely:

• Citrus fruit

Grapefruit (Citrus Maxima Fructus) is an example of a citrus fruit. Citrus fruits contain vitamin C which makes the production of white blood cells increase so that they can fight infections in the body. You need daily intake of vitamin C to maintain endurance.

• Garlic

In addition to its ability to fight infection, consumption of garlic or Alium Sativum Bulbus can also help lower blood pressure and inhibit hardening of the arteries. One study showed that garlic extract can strengthen the immune system and relieve flu symptoms.

• Spinach

Besides being rich in vitamin C, spinach (Amaranthus Tricolor Folium) also contains antioxidants and beta-carotene which makes the immune system stronger in fighting infections. To get the maximum benefits of spinach, you are advised not to repeat or cook it too long, so that the nutritional content of spinach is maintained. But the data was obtained from studies in animals. To assess the health benefits of humans still need further study.

• Papaya

Papaya fruit (Carica Papaya Fructus) has a recommended daily percentage of vitamin C intake of 224 percent, making it one of the plants with the most vitamin C content. In addition to vitamin C, papaya also has anti-inflammatory effects and other substances that are useful for health, such as folate, B vitamins, and potassium. But this anti-inflammatory effect is still limited to animal studies. To assess the effects of immune boosters in humans still needs to be further investigated.

• Kiwi

Kiwi or Actinidia deliciosa fructus is a plant rich in vitamin C in addition to papaya which also contains folate, potassium and vitamin K. Other nutrients in kiwifruit help the body fight infection, while keeping the body functioning as it should. From a study it was found that consumption of one kiwi each week plus regular exercise and a healthy eating pattern can increase levels of good fats (HDL).

Not only immunity, these plants are also believed to be able to reduce the risk of health problems. Plants such as basil (basil) and cinnamon are some examples of other plants that have similar benefits. Basil is believed to reduce cortisol production which can trigger stress, while cinnamon is also proven to reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and decreased nervous system function. But this basil effect is still limited to animal studies.

Should Take Herbal Medicine?

As with drugs that you get from your doctor, herbal medicines or supplements also have the potential to cause side effects, although it is quite rare, such as allergic reactions, reactions due to interactions with other drugs whether prescribed or not. Herbal medicines have active chemical ingredients that have the potential to interact with other drugs. This can affect the performance of drugs, the risk of side effects, and metabolism of drugs in the body. In addition, most research trials that examine the health benefits of herbal products are also limited to animal studies. The health benefits for humans, along with the risks and side effects, still need further investigation. This is why experts give recommendations to remain wise in making decisions, related to the use of herbal medicines. Look for as much information as possible about herbal medicines before you buy or consume them. Also discuss with your doctor about the level of need and dosage that suits your condition. Your doctor may recommend herbal medicines or supplements if you feel you are not getting enough nutrition from food or treatment that is being done.