Naturopathic Information - MICROgenics Echinacea ACE with Zinc

Immune Health

• Echinacea is an old remedy used by North American Indians.
• The mechanism behind Echinacea's support for the immune system is due to its ability to stimulate Nonspecific (innate) immunity. Nonspecific immunity is so named because its components treat all foreign substances in much the same way. The white blood cells involved in nonspecific immunity are monocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, and natural killer cells. Each type has a slightly different function. Echinacea and Zinc enhance the function of these White Blood cells in defending the body against foreign microbes. Echinacea specifically increases some of the white blood cells abilities to phagocytose (engulf and destroy) bacteria or any other foreign body entering the body.
• In 2005 a pilot study of Echinacea found that it invoked an immune response and increased white blood cell count
• Allergies, Sinusitis, and Hay fever are a disorder of the immune system. Echinacea is traditionally used in Naturopathic medicine to reduce upper respiratory catarrh and mucous congestion enhancing a healthy immune response.
• Ginger exerts antimicrobial and antibacterial activities reducing the severity and duration of colds.
• Zinc is an essential cofactor for healthy immune function and development of white blood cells. It is found in every cell of the body and it supports general health and well being.
• Vitamin C is widely used to treat common upper respiratory tract infections such as cold and flu. It also possesses the ability to reduce histamine levels. Histamine is raised in allergic responses.
• Betacarotene is a precursor to Vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for repair and maintenance of healthy mucous membranes in the lungs.
• Vitamin E's most important role is that of an antioxidant. Antioxidants fight damage caused by free radicals.
• This formula may be used to assist general health and well being.