Maintaining a healthy level of white blood cells is key to overall health. If a blood test discovers the count is lower than it should be there are natural ways to help increase these cells.
White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role in the immune system, acting as the body’s defenders against infections and foreign invaders. These specialised cells are produced in the bone marrow and circulate throughout the bloodstream, constantly patrolling for signs of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
There are different types of white blood cells, each with specific functions, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Neutrophils are the first responders, swiftly arriving at the site of infection to engulf and neutralise invaders. The neutrophils are the most abundant and “the lower the neutrophil count, the greater the risk of (and severity of) infection.”
A low white blood cell count, known as Leukopenia, can have various causes. Some common factors contributing to a decrease in white blood cells include:
- Bone Marrow Issues
- Viral Infections
- Autoimmune Disorders
- Medications
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemical Exposure
- Nutritional Deficiencies
- Inherited Disorders
Natural Ways to Increase White Blood Cell Count
White blood cells are the body’s first line of defence against harmful pathogens and so it is important to keep your white blood cell count in the normal range. Here are some ways to support this –
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Echinacea – Several studies have demonstrated how Echinacea supports immunity. Echinacea has been shown to enhance natural killer cell activity and neutrophils rapidly increase within the first 24 hours of taking it. STUDY.
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Astragalus – Studies show Astragalus increases B-lymphocyte and T-lymphocyte levels, interleukin and antibody production. It also promotes phagocytosis, the process by which certain living cells called phagocytes engulf other cells, particles and even pathogens. STUDY.
- Cat’s Claw – A recent study showed that Cat’s Claw significantly elevated white blood cell count in adult men who supplemented with this herb for 6 months. STUDY.
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Turmeric – Studies support its efficacy as an immune supportive plant. STUDY.
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Vitamin B Complex – Especially B6 and B12 can increase the production of white blood cells in the body. Vitamin B9 (Folate) boosts the production of neutrophils and helps fight infections.
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Vitamin C and Vitamin A are also very important for increasing white blood cell count. Vitamin C supports immunity. Vitamin A boosts the production of lymphocytes.
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Zinc – Our bodies use zinc to build immune system cells called T lymphocytes.
- Sunlight – A study, published in the journal, Scientific Reports, shows that sunlight may have an energising effect on T cells, a type of white blood cell that activates cells in the body to fight infection. STUDY.
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Selenium – Has been found to have a positive effect on the production of white blood cells. STUDY.
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Green tea – Increases the leukocyte activity and the total plasma antioxidant status and may have role to play in the prevention of inflammatory disease. STUDY.
It’s important to note that a low white blood cell count can have serious health implications, and its underlying cause should be promptly identified and addressed by a healthcare professional.
