Strengthening lung and gut function to boost immunity

Amid uncertainties during the COVID-19 pandemic, one thing is certain: More than ever, it is time to take steps to keep the immune system in top form.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), certain herbs and plants are used by practitioners to support the immune system. One of them is the honeysuckle flower, or jin yin hua in Chinese, which is widely used in TCM to relieve symptoms of colds, cough and other respiratory-related issues.

Honeysuckle flowers, known as jin yin hua, are commonly used in TCM to treat respiratory illnesses. Photo: Shutterstock

Over a Zoom interview, Ms Maggie Tseng, a Taiwanese celebrity health coach and nutritionist in private practice, shared that the dried flower buds of the honeysuckle plant are known to protect and nourish the lungs, as well as boost immunity. “The honeysuckle flower is known in Chinese medicine to have antiviral and antibacterial properties, and it has a protective effect on the mucous membranes that line the inside of the mouth, nose and throat,” said the health coach, who is often invited to share her knowledge on Taiwanese health television programmes.

The honeysuckle flower is currently one of the most sought after traditional herbs in Taiwan and was also high in demand during the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak in 2003 due to its immune-boosting benefits, she said.

HEALTHY LUNGS AND GUT, HEALTHY BODY

Explaining the TCM concept of how nourishing the lungs can boost immunity, Ms Tseng said: “The lungs are considered the first line of defence between the external environment and the body. They are thus important in fending off infections and for maintaining good overall health.”

There is also emerging evidence that links the digestive system to the immune system, she added. Maggie said research has found that around 70 per cent of the body’s immune cells are found in the gut.

Keeping your digestive system in top form could well boost your immunity. Photo: Shutterstock

Some studies in recent years have also found that the lungs and gut microbiotas (microbiota refers to the variety of microorganisms that are found within a specific environment) may “interact” with each other. For instance, in a review published in the journal Nature Immunology last year, the authors wrote that “the lungs, previously thought to be sterile, are now known to harbour a unique microbiota and, additionally, to be influenced by microbial signals from distal body sites, such as the intestine”.

Ms Tseng shared that according to TCM principles, the lungs and digestive system are also said to be interconnected and both play an important role in defending against external pathogens. Imbalances in either of these systems could lead to a weakened immune system and sub-optimal overall health.

HOW LIFESTYLE AND DIET CAN AFFECT IMMUNITY

Ms Tseng pointed out that habits common in today’s modern lifestyle, such as poor diet and sleep habits, smoking and lack of exercise, can undermine the immune system.

“For example, many people may not get a variety of nutrients from their diet. We need a wide variety of nutrients from our diet to help our immune system run well,” she said.

There are also other environmental factors that can affect one’s immune system, such as air pollution, she added. To maintain an efficient immune system, a healthy lifestyle and a well-balanced diet are essential.

Ms Tseng said: “This includes getting sufficient sunlight, which aids your body to produce vitamin D. This vitamin is important in regulating our immune function. Staying indoors for prolonged periods may contribute to a deficiency in Vitamin D. You should get at least 15 minutes of sunshine each day.”

Getting your daily dose of sunshine ensures your body produces vitamin D. Photo: Shutterstock

SUPPORT YOUR BODY'S NATURAL DEFENCES

In addition to a healthy diet and lifestyle, you can strengthen your body’s natural defences against infections with Woah Health Immune X-pert, said Ms Tseng.

Developed to support immunity and nourish the digestive system and lungs, the formulation contains a synergistic blend of botanical extracts, including honeysuckle flower extracts, and probiotics. It also contains chrysanthemum and jasmine green tea extracts for an antioxidant boost.

According to Ms Tseng, who was involved in the development of the product, Woah Health Immune X-pert is suitable for adults and children aged six and above, and is best taken after a meal. However, not everyone can consume honeysuckle flowers. Infants, young children, pregnant ladies and women having their menstruation should avoid taking the product as it is considered slightly “cooling” in nature, she cautioned.

As caffeine can affect absorption of the product, she also advises users not to drink tea, coffee or other caffeinated beverages 30 minutes before and after consuming the supplement.

Ms Tseng added that while the body’s defence system plays an important role in keeping healthy in the current pandemic, maintaining a strong immune system would help prevent diseases in the long run.

For more information on Woah Health Immune X-pert, visit woahgroup.com/products/immune-booster. Each box of 30 sachets costs S$59 and is available at Watsons, OG and selected Chinese medical halls.