Originally published under Smack Media, written by Evan McKenna

It’s 9 p.m., and as you lie in bed, you notice something strange about your throat and ears: they itch when you swallow. You tell yourself that it’s pollen or seasonal allergies. But both you and your body know that it feels like something worse.

By morning, the itch has developed into a sharp pain, and now it’s too late to call out of work. As you sit in traffic on the way to the office, you look for tissues in your glove compartment. But they’re all gone. Your nose is running. You need to wipe it.

I’m sick, y​ou admit.

For the next week you endure the burdensome and painful illness, asking yourself something along the lines of, “​why did I touch my face after picking up my son’s germ-covered baby toys?” Or, “Why didn’t I just wash that lettuce?”

But there is another way you could have prevented this from happening: immune boosters. Here are five herbal and vitamin-infused products that you can try next time.

Protects Against More Than Just Vampires

It’s time to open those sinuses and protect against colds with Garlic Allium Sativum. This valuable herbal supplement has a long history of healing because of its antiviral powers. Crushing garlic cloves generates a sulfur compound called ​allicin, ​which is the strongest component in garlic, due to its antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Doses of this can stave off those tragic sore throats and congested noses that we so often face.

$15.25, Walmart.com

Acute Respiratory Infections? No thanks

One teaspoon daily of Panax Ginseng is a natural way to prevent acute respiratory infections. Research shows that ginseng users contract considerably fewer colds, and that it is a safe way to combat illness. Go herbal with Panax Ginseng, and save yourself from lung and nasal congestion.

$9.44, Walmart.com

The All Powerful Virus Fighter

Siberian​ ​Eleuthero Root has similar effects to Panax Ginseng, although the two are not entirely similar. Eleuthero has effective strength-boosting action, which specifically focuses on antiviral defense. This is just what you need to protect yourself from the unpredictable, unknown viruses that so often ambush our immune systems.

$7.59, Walmart.com

The Ancient Chinese Medicine

Astragalus, a plant that has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years, is another type of antiviral, immune-boosting herb. A daily dose of 2-3 oz. astragalus root provides your body with the nutrients it needs to shield viruses. It is also a great mix with garlic, enhancing the body with a double protective force.

$9.92, Walmart.com

Spare the Oranges

And last, the non-herbal, Emergen-C supplement that we see in every store. It has more Vitamin C than ten oranges and is filled with electrolytes, antioxidants, and B vitamins: three elements that help prevent or treat the common cold. It can be taken every day in regular doses, but larger doses when sick. Fight off colds with the ultimate pack of Vitamin C. If not, at least pack tissues in your glove compartment.

$9.92, Walmart.com

While these boosters cannot ensure you safety from colds, flus, and viruses, they have the potential to heavily lower the risk.

So lower that risk. Don’t be the person who shows up to work fatigued by the throes of temporary sickness. Be the person who walks in the office smiling, like a freshly bloomed flower, healthy and happy with the immune system of a champ.