Echinacea
(Echinacea Augustifolia)
Echinacea is a Perennial plant from the the daisy family, Asteraceae. Native to North America, it grows to a height of 2-3 feet.
It was widely used by the Plains Indians for its medicinal qualities as a treatment for symptoms caused by the common cold. In the 1930s it became popular in both Europe and America as a herbal medicine.
Echinacea is produced in a variety of forms:
- Pills, liquid, chewable tablets and instant tea.
- Echinacea may be combined with other plant extracts to increase their effectiveness.
- A combination of Echinacea, wild indigo, water hemp and arnica have been proven to be especially effective for boosting immunity.
Therapeutic Effect:
- Echinacea contains several ingredients that exert an overall stimulating effect on the immune system.
- It activates the liver, lymph nodes and mucous membranes, that enhances the body’s overall ability to fight infections.
- Echinacea also contains substances that have wound healing and germicidal properties.
Components: (2 main ingredients)
Store-bought preparations are usually made from the flower, leaves and root.
- echinacosides (in the flower and root)
- polysaccharide heteroxylan (in the leaves)
Echinacea compresses
Echinacea possesses germ killing and wound healing properties.
- Soak a damp cotton cloth in a solution containing 1 part Echinacea to 2 parts water and apply gently to the affected area.
- A compresses can help to relieve swollen glands, inflammations of the veins (phlebitis), infected cuts, skin abrasions, burns and inflamed insect bites.
Side effects:
There have been no reports of side effects. However, take caution when taking Echinacea. Many preparations contain alcohol to increase shelf life, children should be given pure pressed juice, lozenges or chewable tablets.
Latest research findings:
Extreme physical exertion can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. Many sports physicians recommend that anyone undergoing endurance training take Echinacea for a day or so after extreme physical exertion to strengthen the immune system.
It can also be used for the treatment of coughs, sneezing, hoarseness, sore throat, tonsillitis, sinus infections, skin inflammations, minor wounds, bladder or kidney infections, gynaecologic infections and general immune deficiency.
Duration of use:
Continuous use is not advised. Some studies suggest that it is only effective up to 10 days.
Tip: As soon as fever blisters begin, treat with Echinacea. Place a few drops of pressed Echinacea juice on a cotton ball or swab and gently apply to the infected area. This remedy can halt the progression of the lesions or prevent them all together.
References:
- The Complete Guide To Natural Healing
Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.
Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!
Lisa
