Echinacea

Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea purpurea   Family: Compositae

 

Overview

Echinacea is a vibrant immune-boosting herb long cherished in North American herbal traditions for its ability to stimulate the body’s natural defenses. Most effective when taken at the onset of illness, it helps shorten the duration and severity of colds, flus, and other infections. In addition to bolstering immune response, Echinacea offers anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. This hardy prairie plant also supports wound healing and overall resilience, making it a key herb in seasonal wellness and recovery blends.

    

Traditional Uses:

• Cold and flus
• Inflammatory conditions

Caution:

Watch for signs of allergy

Applications:

At onset of illness: 1/4 Cup infusion every half hour up to 4 Cups per day; tincture ¼-½ tsp every hour, up to 6 tsp daily

Parts Used:

Root, leaves, flower, seed

Habitat & Growing Conditions:

Native to America and can grow in all regions. Prefers well drained soil in prairies; full sun in colder climates, partial shade in warmer climates

Traditional Chinese Medicine Flavors:

Bitter, Pungent, Cool

Properties:

• Stimulates immune function
• Anti-fungal
• Anti-bacterial

Key Constituents:

• Polysaccharides
• Caffeic acid
• Echinacoside
• Sesquiterpenes
• Tannins
• Linoleic acid
• Beta-carotene
• Vitamin C

Try these following products that contain this wonderful addition to your immunity: 

• Immune Boost 

 Sources:

Medicinal Herbs, Rosemary Gladstar p129

The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra 

 

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. If you are under the care of a health care provider and/or taking prescription medication, check with your health care provider before taking any herbal supplement.