Boost Your Immune System: Tried-and-True Remedies from Around the World

Boost Your Immune System: Tried-and-True Remedies from Around the World

"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food," Hippocrates said. Since ancient times, humans around the world have looked to nature for both fuel and healing. Modern research shows many of the foods and herbs that people originally used as medicine—from South African hibiscus to Indian turmeric to Panamanian dark chocolate—still have immune-boosting health benefits today. Try integrating some of these tried-and-true remedies into your lifestyle, and eat to beat those winter flus.

This fruit promotes good digestion, reduces inflammation and has strong antioxidant properties. Fermented papaya—available in powdered form—is especially impressive: it has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in the elderly and in those with hypothyroidism and liver disease, and another study found its extract can lower biomarkers linked to cancer.

Nature's Botox? Along with providing a rich source of immunity-boosting vitamin C, oranges also help increase the body's natural supply of collagen, which keeps skin smooth and supple, and hair and nails strong. Collagen also has a hand in aiding healthy digestion, and one study showed it can improve joint pain after exercise.