20 Vitamins and Supplements to Boost Immune Health for COVID-19

COVID-19 comes with cold and flu-like symptoms. Vitamins B, C, and D, as well as zinc, may help boost your immune system and fight the illness, similar to how they can help with a cold or flu.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C can help fight a cold faster or alleviate cold symptoms if taken before getting sick. It can reduce inflammation, including lung inflammation, which is a severe symptom of COVID-19. Starting vitamin C supplements when you’re healthy can be beneficial.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps maintain optimal blood levels of calcium and phosphorous. You can get vitamin D from sunlight, supplements, and food. Adequate vitamin D levels can also protect against respiratory infections.

According to studies published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapeutics, vitamin D supplementation significantly reduces the chance of respiratory tract infections.

B Complex vitamins

Vitamin B6 is essential for a healthy immune system. Ensure you get enough vitamin B through supplements, diet, or a multivitamin.

Zinc

Zinc lozenges or cold remedies can help reduce the duration of rhinovirus colds. Zinc also aids symptoms such as nasal congestion, drainage, sore throat, and cough. It stimulates the production and activation of T-cells, which respond to infections.

For a faster recovery, take zinc within 24 hours of symptoms, but be cautious not to exceed 150mg per day to avoid toxicity and negative effects on your immune system. Consult your doctor if you’re taking multiple zinc medications.

What are the best supplements to take during the COVID-19 crisis?

The following supplements, whether consumed as whole foods or pills, may support your immune system against COVID-19:

Elderberry

Elderberry syrup, known for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, is used as a remedy for colds, influenzas, and sinus infections. It reduces swelling in mucus membranes and may also benefit the immune system against COVID-19.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms contain selenium, B vitamins, and polysaccharides that support optimal immune function.

Astragalus

Astragalus is an herb used to strengthen the immune system, treat the common cold, and fight bacteria and viruses.

Research supporting its effectiveness against illness is limited. However, a study found that astragalus root extract improved seasonal allergy symptoms.

Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that acts as an antioxidant and boosts immune function, except in individuals with autoimmune disorders.

Garlic

Garlic has antiviral properties that may reduce the severity of cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms. It can also shorten the duration of a cold.

Andrographis

Andrographis, a plant used in medicine, is known for reducing pain, fever, and symptoms of the common cold and flu.

Studies have shown that it can improve symptoms and speed up recovery in patients with the flu.

Licorice root

Licorice root can soothe sore throat pain, reduce inflammation, and loosen congestion.

Pelargonium sidoides

Pelargonium sidoides is commonly used to treat upper respiratory infections, including bronchitis, sinusitis, and the common cold.

Taking a specific extract of pelargonium sidoides can reduce symptoms and clear up the common cold. It can also alleviate bronchitis symptoms.

Curcumin

Curcumin, derived from turmeric, possesses analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. It helps fight inflammation and boost the immune response.

Echinacea

Echinacea is often used to treat cold symptoms. Its effectiveness in preventing the common cold is debated, but it may improve the response to the flu vaccine.

Combining echinacea with sage as a throat spray can ease sore throat pain.

Propolis

Propolis, a resin-like material, is used to boost the immune system and as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It may help prevent or reduce the duration of common colds and respiratory tract infections.

Acai berry

Acai berry is rich in antioxidants and known for stimulating the immune system. It is being studied for its potential to treat various conditions and support overall health.

What alternative medicine supplements can I take to protect myself from COVID-19?

Chinese traditional medicine was promoted for symptom relief during the original coronavirus outbreak. Studies suggest that certain herbs may prevent colds and respiratory infections:

• Radix astragali (Huangqi, or astragalus): boosts the immune system and may prevent colds and respiratory infections.
• Radix glycyrrhizae (Gancao, or licorice root): relieves sore throat, cough, and COVID-19 symptoms.
• Radix saposhnikoviae (Fangfeng, or siler root): used for general aches, headaches, fever, cold, and allergic rhinitis.
• Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae (Baizhu, or Atractylodes): supports lung health.
• Lonicerae Japonicae Flos (Jinyinhua, or honeysuckle): decreases inflammation in upper respiratory tract infections, including colds, influenza, and pneumonia.
• Fructus forsythia (Lianqiao, or forsythia): decreases inflammation and symptoms of bronchiolitis, tonsillitis, and fever.

However, using traditional Chinese medicine as the sole treatment or prevention protocol is not recommended. Consult your doctor before taking any herbal supplements to ensure they don’t interact with your current medications.