The immune system comprises cells, tissues, and organs that defend the body against harmful pathogens and foreign substances. However, once infected, illnesses can easily compromise it. Your immune system comprises two primary components: the innate and acquired immune systems.

The innate system is the body’s first line of defense. It provides generalized protection against a wide range of pathogens. Your innate immune system is always present and active, providing immediate protection. On the other hand, the acquired immune system is highly focused and targets specific threats. It’s the basis of vaccines, slower to act than the innate system but more specialized.

You can think of your body as a castle—the walls are the innate immune system, constantly standing and ready to protect you. The acquired system is like the body’s knights. You need to train and direct them before they can neutralize an invader. Both systems work together to keep your body safe and healthy every day.

As the owner, you should do everything in your power to help your immune system handle threats. However, given the wide variety of options, choosing which treatment to pick is difficult. This guide will review the types of natural and pharmaceutical medicines and treatments so you know which to use in any situation.

Natural Medicines

Natural medicines are treatments made from materials you can find in nature, like plants, animal products, and minerals. Most natural medicines are from treatments people have been using for centuries. They generally have a gentler effect on the immune system and are less likely to cause side effects.

Examples of Natural Medicines

Here are some of the most popular and effective natural medicines.

1. Honey

Honey has natural antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. People use it for everything from a sore throat to cancer symptom management. People usually take honey mixed with tea or as a dressing for wounds.

2. Ginger

Ginger can significantly improve your gastrointestinal health. People undergoing chemotherapy or pregnant persons with morning sickness of pregnancy can benefit from ginger teas, which reduce the nausea they may experience.

3. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is a natural anti-inflammatory treatment that’s highly effective against bacterial and fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. It can also reduce acne when applied topically. 

Homeopathy

Homeopathy is a subfield of natural medicines based on the principle that the body can cure itself. Homeopathic medicines use natural substances diluted in water, alcohol, or oil to induce similar symptoms to what they’re trying to remedy. The belief is that these similar effects will trigger the body to undergo the same healing process, treating the ailment.

Examples of Homeopathic Remedies

Here are some of the most popular and effective homeopathic remedies.

1. Arnica (arnica plant)

Arnica is a remedy for body aches and muscle soreness. People generally use arnica remedies for stiffness after long periods of inactivity, exercise soreness, and insect bites.

2. Allium cepa (onions)

Allium cepa remedies treat allergies and the common cold. They induce watery eyes, itchiness, and sore throats – most of which are the symptoms of the ailments they’re trying to remedy.

3. Nux-vomica (strychnine tree)

Nux-vomica is generally used to treat symptoms of overindulging. For example, signs of drinking too much alcohol, overeating, and working too much are all targeted by this remedy.

Traditional Chinese Treatments

While not medicine, many traditional treatments also fall under the “natural” umbrella. The most popular ones people practice today revolve around ancient Chinese beliefs and practices that are mostly unchanged today. They generally focus on the balances of Qi, or internal energy, in the body.

Examples of Traditional Treatments

Here are some of the most popular and effective traditional Chinese treatments.

1. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is inserting thin needles through the skin at strategic points. Traditionally, the needles control the flow of Qi, but modern practitioners also use them to stimulate specific nerves. The practice effectively reduces all kinds of pain and relieves stress.

2. Cupping

Cupping uses heated cups or jars to create a vacuum on specific portions of the skin. The suction causes microtears, which adjust blood flow and, traditionally, Qi. Today, practitioners use cupping to treat respiratory ailments, body aches, and hypertension.

3. Tai chi

Tai chi is a set of slow, deliberate movements based on a Chinese martial art that incorporates breathing techniques to promote healthy Qi flow. Today, Tai chi is a popular exercise and meditation method, promoting physical and mental fitness in practitioners.

Pharmaceutical Medicines

Scientists develop pharmaceutical medicines in laboratories using synthetic and biological compounds. They design these medicines to target specific molecules, cells, or neurotransmitter receptors causing the symptoms.

Examples of pharmaceutical medicine include antibiotics. They treat bacterial infections by introducing chemicals that kill bacteria or stop their growth, allowing your immune system to fight off the infection. The most famous antibiotic is the first one discovered, penicillin, which doctors still prescribe today.

Immunosuppressants are another pharmaceutical medicine. Autoimmune diseases and organ and stem cell transplants can cause your immune system to attack healthy cells and tissues like foreign invaders. Immunosuppressants slow or stop specific immune system responses to circumvent these reactions.

While effective, pharmaceutical medicines have harsher and less predictable side effects than natural remedies. They can also have more extreme chemical interactions with one another, which can leave you feeling entirely different symptoms.

The Great Medicine Debate

Most desired health outcomes have more than one possible solution, from boosting your immunity to treating diseases. That’s why it’s essential to understand your options before you select a treatment.

Natural medicines and treatments are gentler and have less pronounced effects and side effects. However, pharmaceutical drugs aren’t perfect, with their potentially harsher impact. Generally, natural remedies are great for less serious medical concerns and overall bodily wellness, while pharmaceuticals are ideal for severe symptoms.

As with all decisions relating to your health and body, make sure that you consult with a trusted healthcare provider before choosing an option. You must reveal to them all the substances you’re taking, as they can have significant interactions with one another.