The adaptive immune system1 acts to discern what pathogens (an infectious agent that can cause disease) are foreign to the body and destroy them before they cause harm. The adaptive immune system responds to kill invading pathogens via an innate immune response, which is activated directly by the pathogens themselves. As a result of the pathogen and innate immune response interacting, they stimulate and activate an adaptive immune response. Aren’t our bodies intelligent!
The innate immune system can distinguish between different classes of pathogens, and this is important to note after all many foreign molecules enter our bodies every day. A lot of them are entirely harmless. If our human body responded to every foreign molecule it would be pointless and may even be more dangerous for the body.
Any substance capable of eliciting an adaptive immune system response is called an antigen. ‘Self-Antigens’ are found on any normal body cell, while those on the surface of a pathogen are called ‘foreign antigens.’ It is our white blood cells that must be able to distinguish between our body cells and ‘foreign’ cells, such as bacteria. The white blood cells recognize proteins in the cell membranes, and it is essential that they only target ‘foreign’ cells or antigens. If the white blood cells abnormally target body cells (self-antigens), it is called an autoimmune disease.
All of this may sound rather complicated, but the bottom line is that our immune system is a versatile defense system. We must support the immune system in as many ways possible. From getting enough sleep, eating fresh fruit and vegtables, drinking plenty of water, and reducing stress levels, we can be assured that the complexity of our biology will do its part too.
Our products here at X5 Naturals contains ingredients that support the immune system. Three ingredients in our morning blend, for example, have a suggested capacity to support, enhance, and modulate aspects of the immune system.
There is increasing evidence that CORDYCEPS is a bidirectional modulator which helps regulate innate and adaptive immunity.2 It is suggested that it can soothe the lung, replenish the kidney, and help eliminate phlegm.
REISHI are said to boost components of both the innate and adaptive immune systems.3 Reishi has also been found to promote the maturation and activation of immune system cells like T cells.
The ‘King’ of oils, FRANKINCENSE, packs a serious punch when it comes to strengthening the immune system. Frankincense addresses inflammation in the body and works to protect cells from the daily onslaught of free radicals.4
Our bodies are amazing, and the adaptive immune system customizes to the need as a result of a pathogen threat. As immune responses are always happening in our bodies, we must support its vast functions and robust cellular biology.
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1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK21070/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92758/
3. https://www.healthpro.com.sg/index.php?route=news/article&news_id=247
4. https://www.prohealth.com/library/frankincense-oil-the-king-of-oils-5850
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