Improving Immunity
A monocyte is a white blood cell (a component of the immune system) which are considered to be the bodies second line of defense against infection. They are very helpful in cases of severe infection as they help to fight off invading pathogens and are produced in the bone marrow by stem cells and stored in the spleen. The function of monocytes in regards to immunity are that they help to initiate immune system responses by presenting antigens to T-Lymphocytes (resistance).
LOW WHITE BLOOD CELL COUNT
Low monocyte count in the blood may be indicative of:
- low immunity
- anaemia or pernicious anaemia
- disorders of the bone marrow, liver or spleen
- viral infections can cause a temporary drop in monocyte levels
- exposure to radiation (chemotherapy or radiation therapy in cancer)
- heavy metal toxicity
HIGH WHITE BLOOD CELL COUNT
High monocyte count (monocytosis) in the blood may be indicative of:
- chronic inflammation
- stress response
- necrosis
- viral fever
- adrenal conditions
- Glandular fever or the Epstein Barr virus
BOOSTING IMMUNITY
The following may be of assistance to boost immunity in a low monocyte situation:
- Echinacea, Reishi mushrooms, Ashwaganda, Cats claw, Green tea, Codonopsis, Forsythia, Andrographis, Siberian ginseng, Atractylodes, Astragalus and Ligustrum may help to increase the production of monocytes
- Vitamin E, Beta carotene, Folic acid and Selenium are antioxidants which promote the health of the immune system and production and function of white blood cells
- Lactoferrin (whey protein) may enhance the effectiveness of monocytes