Echinacea

Overview – There are three species of Echinacea: Echinacea pallida, Echinacea angustifolia, and
Echinacea purpurea. Often supplements, ointments, tablets, etc., contain a mixture of more than
one species. Here we will use its common short form, “Echinacea.”

Echinacea stimulates the immune and lymphatic systems, and is often taken alongside
Goldenseal. Together they are a potent disease and infection fighting force. This dynamic duo
prevents further illnesses and works almost immediately after taking it.

What Echinacea Can Treat – Inflammation, Bacterial Infections, Viral Infections, Colic, Common
Cold, Flu, Cough, Sore Throat, Allergies, Tumors, Wounds, Hay Fever, Urinary Tract Infections,
Mild Pain, Athlete’s Foot, Ear Infections, Boils, Minor Wounds, Psoriasis, Herpes Simplex, and
Hemorrhoids.

Echinacea is particularly effective against ailments of the respiratory system. One study by the
University of British Colombia found that “Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Strep), which is often
associated with sore throat and more severe pulmonary infections, was readily inactivated by
Echinacea, which also completely reversed the cellular pro-inflammatory response.”

Treatment and Dosage - Take two capsules with around 450 mg of Echinacea each 3-5 times a
day, depending on the severity of the pathogen. Alternate with 2 capsules with 450 mg of
Goldenseal for best effect. Begin treatment as soon as you notice symptoms.

For topical use, apply Echinacea in the form of a salve on the affected area 3-5 times a day, as
needed.

How it Works – Relatively little is known about the exact mechanisms of Echinacea. However,
studies have been conducted that have found that “E. purpurea can be immunostimulatory,
immunosuppressive, and/or anti-inflammatory depending on the portion of the plant and
extraction method” (University of Montana). We also know that Alkamides are the chemicals
generally believed to be the cause of Echinacea’s beneficial properties, as well as Favonoids, which
are free radical fighting agents.

Toxicity – You should not take Echinacea for more than 10 days at one time.

If you are allergic to ragweed or sunflowers, do not ingest Echinacea as you may also be allergic
to it. Do not take it if you have an autoimmune disorder.

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