There is some evidence to suggest that ashwagandha, an herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, may have immune-boosting properties and may be effective at improving the adaptive immune response.
The adaptive immune response is a specific type of immune response that occurs when the body is exposed to a new pathogen, such as a virus or bacteria. During the adaptive immune response, the body produces specialized immune cells called T cells and B cells, which recognize and attack the invading pathogen.
One study found that people who took ashwagandha supplements had increased levels of T cells and antibodies, indicating an improved adaptive immune response. Another study found that ashwagandha increased the production of T cells, which play a key role in the immune system’s ability to fight off infections.