The immune system is your body’s defense against numerous disease-causing microbes or pathogens.
A strong immune system has various cells, processes, and chemical reactions involved to identify foreign materials and microbes as harmful. As a defensive mechanism, it aims to neutralize or eradicate them to prevent cell damage and keep diseases at bay.
Though hereditary genes play an important part in determining an individual’s immunity, natural factors such as age, food, sleep, exercise, stress, and hygiene, all influence immunity greatly.
But why then even the most active and healthy people are susceptible to falling ill often?
Odd as it may seem, the answer to the above question is “ Are you getting the right nutrients and more importantly enough of it?”
By the right nutrients, we mean the essential vitamins and minerals commonly referred to as ‘micronutrients’ that play a vital role to keep your immune system in top condition.
Research shows that micronutrients such as vitamin C, D, and zinc provide strong support to the immune system for optimized performance. In addition, certain botanicals, and functional foods also enhance immunity to a whole new level to provide better protection against various illnesses (1), (2), (3).
Using supplements that deliver useful micronutrients can be a great way to increase the body’s immunity. Immunity system supplements can be purchased online in the form of tablets, lozenges, liquids, capsules, etc. without a doctor’s prescription.
Listed here are our top 6 favorites of immune system supplements. Check them out to see which product suits your needs the best.
Our Top Picks
1. Best Immune System Lozenges: Immune Defence Lozenges
2. Best Immune System Supplement for Daily Use: VitaPost Immune Support
3. Best Natural Immune System Supplement: VitaPost Immune Complex
4. Best Mushroom Blend Immune System Supplement: Host Defence Mushrooms MyCommunity
5. Best Children’s Immune System Supplement: Zarbee’s Naturals Children’s Elderberry Immune Support
6. Best Immune System Tablets: Nuun Immunity
Now let’s look at each of these immune system supplements in detail to find out why they are considered the best in their categories.
1. Best Immune System Lozenges – Immune Defence Lozenges
Lozenges can be soothing and effective to provide relief to sore throat and colds in teens and adults quickly. Even better are lozenges that contain natural and essential nutrients to strengthen the body’s defense system and promote faster recovery from illness.
Berry-like fruits such as rosehip and acerola are known to be high in vitamin C and antioxidants that help to prevent or treat colds and other diseases.
About Immune Defence Lozenges
Immune Defence Lozenges are a soothing dietary supplement containing several nutrients. It is designed to aid in fast relief from colds and hasten recovery by giving a boost to the immune system.
Packed with the essential mineral zinc, it contains natural vitamins A, C, and E from rosehip and acerola. Flavored with aniseed oil, these lozenges have a pleasant taste, are soothing in the throat, and dissolve smoothly on consumption.
Made by Swiss Research Labs based in the UK, Immune Defence Lozenges are available for distribution in the USA. It is made with scientifically backed premium quality ingredients that are subject to strict quality assurance standards that make it safe for consumption.
What it Contains:
Each lozenge has:
- Rose Hip Cut Flowers, Zinc Gluconate, Acerola Powder, Aniseed Oil
Immune Defence lozenges containing rosehip and acerola are a great source of vitamin C that is vital to uphold the body’s immunity. Each lozenge is formulated to deliver approx. Vitamin C (2.5 mg) and Elemental Zinc (3.5 mg).
The suggested dose is to take one lozenge every two or more hours when required. This supplement is suitable for children above 12 years and adults. The manufacturer recommends not exceeding a maximum of 4 lozenges a day.
Vegan-friendly, Immune Defence Lozenges are made of premium quality ingredients and can be taken to prevent or aid in quick recovery from infections. The company also offers a 100-day money-back guarantee for purchases over 1 month supply, if found unsatisfactory.
The Pros:
- Soothing lozenges with zinc
- Good source of vitamin C from acerola and rosehip combination
- Flavored with aniseed oil for a pleasant taste
- 100-day money-back guarantee
Summary: Immune Defence Lozenges are a soothing solution to getting proven relief from cold and cough. The aniseed-flavored lozenges with vitamin C and zinc boost immunity and make you less susceptible to severe infections.
2. Best Immune System Supplement for Daily Use – VitaPost Immune Support
The immune system protects our body every day from microorganisms and environmental factors that can cause potential infections. So, ensuring the body gets adequate nutrients from food or supplements is essential for overall well-being.
Supplements with natural ingredients and specific nutrients that can be used daily, can fill nutrient deficits and help bolster our immune system with the power to fight disease-causing germs.
About VitaPost Immune Support
VitaPost Immune Support is a top-quality dietary supplement that can be taken every day to build a stronger immune system. Loaded with traditional and modern ingredients, this supplement can support good health and provide a strong defense against illnesses.
The potent blend of therapeutic botanicals, edible fungi, vitamins, and minerals ensures that the body is nourished with antioxidants, flavonoids, and polyphenols that provide complete protection against diseases.
VitaBalance Inc is based in the USA and makes its VitaPost Immune Support with domestic and globally procured ingredients. The product is made an FDA-registered facility with strict adherence to quality and GMP standards.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 2 capsules provides:
- Vitamin C – 30 mg
- Vitamin E – 30 IU
- Selenium – 20 mg
- Graviola Leaf Powder – 300 mg
- Green Tea Extracts – 200 mg
- Turmeric Rhizome Powder, Beta-Glucans Powder – 100 mg each
VitaPost Immune Support contains additional ingredients such as quercetin, pine bark, extracts of grape seed, olive leaf, garlic powder, a herbal powder complex made of rhubarb root, slippery elm bark, burdock root, and a blend of shitake, reishi, and maitake mushroom powders.
The supplement of 60 capsules can provide 30 servings in all. The suggested dosage is 2 capsules a day taken preferably with food. The capsules through easy-to-swallow contain gelatin and hence are not suitable for vegans.
Immune Support is made with high-quality non-GMO ingredients and is lab tested for safety. The product contains soy and no other allergens. It is also priced at an affordable cost and the purchase of multiple bottles can get you better savings with assured immunity.
The Pros:
- A potent immunity-boosting supplement suitable for daily use
- Excellent combination of healing botanicals and powerful vitamins
- Affordably priced and lab tested
- High-quality non-GMO ingredients
Summary: VitaPost Immune Support is a powerful supplement that can be used every day to boost the body’s immunity. Made with non-GMO botanicals and useful vitamins, this product can keep you healthy and protected from frequent illness.
3. Best Natural Immune System Supplement – VitaPost Immune Complex
The human body derives more benefit from natural nutrition than synthetic or lab-made ones. Supplements using natural ingredients and nutrients for nourishment can bestow adequate health benefits and lower the risk of side effects.
About VitaPost Immune Complex
VitaPost Immune Complex is a dietary supplement containing plant-based ingredients and vitamins that enhance immunity. Suitable for healthy adults, this supplement can support a stronger and healthier immune system.
The botanical content of elderberry, turmeric, echinacea, garlic, supplies powerful flavonoids, polyphenols, curcuminoids that help fortify the immune system.
The inclusion of the highly useful amino acid L-glutamine HCL, probiotics, key vitamins C, E, B6, and the mineral zinc helps bridge diet deficiencies and strengthen the body’s defense mechanism against microbes and free radicals.
Based in the USA, Vita Balance Inc is a well-known name in the supplement industry. They make all their products in an FDA-registered GMP Certified facility for total quality assurance. The use of non-GMO ingredients makes their products safe and effective.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 2 veggie capsules consists of:
- Vitamin C – 180 mg
- Vitamin E – 20 mg
- Vitamin B6 – 3.4 mg
- Zinc – 16 mg
- L-Glutamine HCL – 200 mg
- Elderberry Fruit Extracts – 300 mg
- Echinacea Powder – 200 mg
- Garlic Powder – 100 mg
- Turmeric 95% Curcuminoids – 100 mg
- Lactobacillus Acidophilus – 4.8 Billion CFU
VitaPost Immune Complex is packed in vegetable cellulose capsules that make it safe for vegan consumption. The product can be purchased as 60 capsules to last for a month.
Two capsules taken daily can contribute to a stronger immune system. The manufacturer recommends individuals with health conditions, pregnant or lactating women, and children to consult a practitioner before using this supplement.
VitaPost Immune complex is made from premium ingredients that are natural and effective. The supplement is reasonably priced and third-party lab-tested to guarantee quality and safety for consumers.
The Pros:
- A potent combo of botanicals, vitamins, and minerals to boost immunity
- Added probiotics for smooth digestive health
- Vegan-friendly cellulose capsules
- Third-party lab tested
Summary: VitaPost Immune Complex is a top-quality supplement with beneficial ingredients that can promote a stronger immune system. Made with non-GMO ingredients and lab-tested, this product can easily guarantee a lifetime of wellness.
4. Best Mushroom Blend Immune System Supplement – Host Defense Mushrooms MyCommunity
Mushrooms are considered to be functional foods, meaning they can provide immense health benefits apart from nutrition. A blend of mushrooms can be a powerful tool to boost high levels of immunity to protect the body from various diseases (4).
About Host Defense Mushrooms MyCommunity
Host Defense Mushrooms MyCommunity is a one-of-a-kind supplement with a blend of edible mushrooms to promote good health and immunity. Loaded with 17 varieties of mushrooms, this supplement can be nature’s gift to sustain overall well-being.
The organically grown mushroom blend contains more than 55% polysaccharides that act as effective immunity boosters. Taking this supplement every day ensures good addition of nutrients and polyphenols that can enhance your body’s defense system.
Host Defense Mushrooms series are made by Fungi Perfecti LLC that is founded and run by Paul Stamets, a renowned mycologist. The mushrooms grown organically are certified by the Washington State Department of Agriculture, Identity Guaranteed, and are non-GMO verified for safety.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 2 capsules holds:
- Maitake mycelium – 148 mg
- Chaga mycelium – 142 mg
- Reishi mycelium – 110 mg
- Cordyceps mycelium – 100 mg
- Royal Sun Blaze mycelium, Enokitake mycelium – 80 mg each
- Mesima mycelium – 76 mg
- Turkey Tails mycelium, Oyster Mushroom mycelium, Lion’s Mane mycelium – 48 mg each
- Artist’s Conk mycelium, Oregon Reishi mycelium, Agarikon mycelium – 30 mg each
- Amadou mycelium, Shiitake mycelium – 20 mg each
- Maitake fruitbodies – 16 mg
- Birch Polypore mycelium, Split Gill Polypore mycelium – 12 mg each
Host Defense Mushrooms MyCommunity is available as 120 capsules that can provide 60 servings to last 2 months. The pullulan capsules made from a yeast-like fungus are vegetarian and hence suitable for vegans.
The suggested dosage for daily intake is 2 capsules taken with food or on an empty stomach or as prescribed by a practitioner. The supplement is only for healthy adults and is not recommended for pregnant women or children.
MyCommunity capsules contain organic mushrooms grown in the USA that are sustainably cultivated, heat-treated for safety and better bioavailability, and freeze-dried to retain nutrients. It also contains myceliated organic brown rice and is completely free from gluten.
The Pros:
- A blend of 17 edible mushrooms
- Identity Guaranteed and certified organic
- Heat-treated for safety and freeze-dried to retain nutrients
- 2-month supply in one bottle
Summary: Host Defence Mushrooms MyCommunity is a special supplement to boost immunity naturally. A blend of 17 organic mushrooms, the ingredients are heat-treated and freeze-dried to deliver nutrients to sustain a stronger immune system.
5. Best Children’s Immune System Supplement – Zarbee’s Natural Children’s Elderberry Immune Support
The immune system of a child is generally weaker than adults as the body is still adapting to different viruses and bacteria. They are more prone to infections and recovery too takes time. Taking supplements with ingredients that can enhance immunity may potentially lower the risk of infections and keep them in the pink of health.
About Zarbee’s Naturals Children’s Elderberry Immune Support
Zarbee’s Naturals Children’s Elderberry Immune Support is a dietary supplement specially formulated to boost immunity in children. Made with natural berry extracts and essential nutrients, this supplement can be used by children upwards of 2 years to strengthen their immune system.
Packed with antioxidants from black elderberry fruit extracts, this supplement also contains vitamin C, zinc, and many other useful vitamins that can arm your child’s immune system to protect against diseases and maintain good health.
Zarbee’s Naturals is based in Utah and Salt Lake City, USA, and makes its Children’s Elderberry Immune Support using domestic and imported ingredients. The elderberries are grown in Austria and the pectin from apple cores comes from France.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 1 gummy offer:
- Calories – 15
- Total Carbohydrates – 3 g
- Total Sugars including added sugars- 2 g
- Vitamin A – 75 mcg
- Vitamin C – 62.5 mg
- Vitamin D3 – 2.5 mcg
- Vitamin E – 3.35 mg
- Zinc – 0.75 mg
- Black Elderberry Fruit Extract – 45 mg
Children’s Elderberry Immune Support can be purchased as bottles of 42 gummies that can provide 42 or 21 servings depending on the consumption. The vegetarian gummies are made of plant-based pectin instead of gelatin. It also gets its natural flavor and color from maqui berry juice.
The recommended dosage is 1 gummy a day for children aged 2-3 years. Older kids of 4+ years of age can take 2 gummies a day. The gummies are to be thoroughly chewed and swallowed and require no water.
Zarbee’s Natural uses no gluten, artificial sweeteners, or high-fructose corn syrup that may be harmful to kids in its supplement. It is also allergen-free to guarantee added safety for children.
The Pros:
- Designed exclusively to boost children’s immunity
- Chewable berry-flavored gummies
- Suitable for kids of 2+ years of age
- No artificial ingredients, gluten, and allergens
Summary: Zarbee’s Naturals Children’s Elderberry Immune Support is a dietary supplement with useful nutrients to boost your child’s immunity. The chewable berry-flavored gummies can help young kids be always strong and healthy.
6. Best Immune System Tablets – Nuun Immunity
Dissolvable tablets are an effective and easy way to get the nutrients you need to get your immunity levels up. They also can induce a person to drink more water and stay better hydrated when the body needs it the most.
About Nuun Immunity
Nuun Immunity is a tasty immunity booster that individuals can use to increase their hydration levels every day. With multiple ingredients that support immunity, this product can be used during travel, post-exercise routines, or to aid in recovery from sickness.
Packed with electrolytes, antioxidants, vitamins, and potent herbal ingredients, this supplement is the effective protection your body needs to combat fatigue, diseases, and ensure you stay hydrated, fit, and energetic every day.
Nuun is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, and makes its Immunity supplement in Minneapolis, USA. The ingredients are domestically and internationally sourced but are non-GMO verified and are third-party verified for purity.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 1 tablet gives:
- Proprietary blend (elderberry extract, organic ginger root powder, organic turmeric, echinacea purpurea) – 125 mg
- Vitamin A – 450 mcg
- Vitamin C – 200 mg
- Vitamin D – 10 mcg
- Vitamin E – 3 mg
- Calcium and Magnesium – 15 mg
- Zinc – 5 mg
- Sodium – 100 mg
- Potassium – 150 mg
Nuun Immunity contains 2 g dextrose and organic stevia extracts for sweetness and 15 calories in each tablet. It is available as a pack of 4 tubes with 10 tablets in each tube and comes with a shelf life of 2 years. It comes in 2 delicious refreshing flavors of Blueberry Tangerine and Orange Citrus.
This portable supplement can fit into your purse or carry-on pouches to keep you hydrated wherever you go. Drop one tablet in 16 oz of hot or cold water, wait for 3 minutes until dissolved, and drink it up. The manufacturer says up to 6 tablets can be used while recovering from sickness.
Nuun Immunity is a clean product that is free from soy, dairy and is certified gluten-free. It contains only natural flavors and organic dextrose made from non-GMO corn. The product is Kosher certified and certified vegan by the American Vegetarian Association (AVA) making it suitable and safe for all.
The Pros:
- A potent mix of electrolytes and nutrients boosts hydration and immunity
- Fast-dissolving 40 tablets in 2 fizzy flavors
- Convenient to carry and use anywhere
- Certified gluten-free and AVA certified vegan
Summary: Nuun Immunity is a quality supplement to support hydration and immunity. With vital electrolytes and nutrients, the gluten-free, vegan-friendly product keeps you energetic and healthy on the go or in your daily life.
Dosage for Immune System Supplements
Most immune supplements are formulated with useful nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and probiotics. These nutrients are required by the human body not only for overall nourishment but also to make the body’s defense against pathogens stronger and effective.
Intake of such nutrients can be monitored as the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) has been established and hence consumption within these limits is considered as safe and effective (5).
The inclusion of natural botanical or herbs that are naturally rich in certain vitamins is common. While plant flavonoids and phenolic compounds can be highly beneficial for health, determination of the exact content and potency can be difficult.
Besides, they may not be compatible with medications or other supplements that may be recommended or used regularly by individuals. Hence, it is advisable to check with a practitioner for the exact dosage and suitability of the supplement for safety and better protection.
Summary: The dosage of immune supplements can depend on the ingredients a supplement contains. Immunity-boosting supplements that contain a combo of natural and vital nutrients are best recommended by a practitioner for safe dosage and use.
Risks and Side Effects of Immune System Supplements
Immune supplements generally include vital nutrients that can fortify the body’s defenses against infection-causing viruses and bacteria. Though generally considered safe, the inclusion of certain natural botanicals may not suit all individuals.
Plant-based ingredients can cause mild side effects such as nausea, dizziness, stomach discomfort, etc. in some people. They are also capable of inducing allergic reactions in certain individuals.
Certain natural herbs and botanicals also have the potential to interact with prescribed medications or anticoagulants. Individuals with an autoimmune disorder can have strong reactions from using supplements with natural ingredients.
Apart from using plain vitamins and minerals, there is a lack of established data as to how supplements with natural herbs or botanicals can suit pregnant women and children. Also, individuals with medical conditions should consult a practitioner for suitability and safety to avoid potential adverse effects.
Summary: The content of natural ingredients in immune supplements can cause allergies or side effects in certain individuals. Hence, consulting a doctor before using any immune supplements is advisable and safe for all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When do I need to take an immune supplement?
Immune supplements are designed to deliver nutrients that can fill diet deficits quickly. You can take immune supplements if you do not eat a well-balanced diet. When you are sick, immune supplements can help promote faster recovery.
People who are stressed, fall ill frequently, engaged in regular travel, or who experience immense fatigue may all have lower immunity. Such individuals would benefit greatly from taking dietary supplements to stay strong and healthy.
What is the ideal time to take an immune supplement?
The time for taking an immune supplement is largely dependent on what the supplement contains.
While supplements with electrolytes can be taken a few times through the day to recover from an illness or to revitalize post-workouts, soluble vitamins are generally recommended to be taken in the mornings.
Brand manufacturers usually mention on the label when and how a supplement should be taken. Better still, check with a practitioner if you do require one.
Is it possible to overdose through the use of immune supplements?
Overdosing on nutrients is possible when a healthy individual who gets adequate nutrition from one’s daily diet uses supplements. The extra nutrients from the supplement can lead to an overdose.
Similarly, people using multiple supplements are also prone to overdosing on nutrients.
Extremely large doses of vitamins such as C, B6 are also harmful and can result in few unpleasant side effects.
The Final Note
The human body’s immune system protects you from various microorganisms, free radicals, and environmental factors that make you susceptible to infections and diseases. Getting the right nutrients can influence immunity to a good extent.
Immune supplements are popular and can contain essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals that can keep you strong and healthy. Apart from these nutrients, plant compounds that are beneficial to health can also be found in these supplements.
Checking with a practitioner regarding dosage and suitability can make a supplement safe and beneficial.
Although supplements are handy aids, focussing on eating healthy, getting adequate sleep, being physically fit, and getting vaccinated in time, can naturally fortify and help maintain a stronger immune system.