The Connection Between Planetary and Human Immunity

Is the plight of the honeybee, other pollinators and insects in general, a part of a larger planetary immune dysfunction that is also affecting us? I believe it is. What makes a good immune system (the ability to respond to pathogens, pests, etc) in nature are the same factors that make a good immune system in humans: biodiversity. We are losing biodiversity everywhere we turn in nature. The lack of biodiversity affects our planet’s insects which are the foundation of our most nutritious food supply. We are cutting down large swaths of trees/ forests which collapses whole ecosystems in exchange for apartment complexes, residential and commercial development, and crop mono-cultures. Without these diverse ecosystems, nature cannot feed, host and provide ecological services (sequester carbon, filter water and air) for the planet and the human family. This affects humans on an ecological scale (the effects of climate change) but also on a personal scale (lowered immunity to viruses, lack of nutrient dense food). Without the diverse trees, plants and insects, the microbiome of the soil is lacking. This directly affects our own microbiome that resides in our small intestines which allows us to absorb nutrients (that create neurotransmitters and health in general) and defend our bodies from pathogenic attacks.

We must start thinking of how inter-connected we are to the natural world and re-build what has been lost. We can each do something to help! Starting by planting native trees and plants to provide food and habitat for our insects, birds and small mammals who all do their part to help pollinate and diversify the landscape. Buying food that is organic, biodynamic or from regenerative farms will support a healthier way of farming the land for our insects, plants and our own microbiome.