Parts Used:
The entire plant is used during its flowering period.
Function:
Echinacea stimulates the immune system on a number of levels, including the increase of the manufacture and activity of lymphocytes, white blood cells and macrophages. This gives echinacea its famous anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
Uses:
* Traditionally used by the North American Indians for snakebites, external wounds and was applied directly in the mouth for toothache and sore throat.
* Currently used to relieve the symptoms of common cold and flu, colic and other infections or inflammations such as ear infection, gingivitis, Crohn’s disease, canker, psoriasis and eczema.
Guidelines:
* Echinacea is ideally taken for a specific purpose or period of time, as prolonged administration may reduce the effectiveness of the herb.
* During the infection of a cold, echinacea may be taken three or four times daily for the duration of the cold.
Interactions:
* Do not use if you are allergic to plants in the sunflower or daisy family.
* Do not use if you have an autoimmune disease such as lupus, or a progressive disease such as multiple sclerosis or tuberculosis.
