Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)
A native to the States, Echinacea has a tonic action on the body's immune system. It was very popular in the 19th century and was known as snakeroot by Americans, as it was believed to heal and treat snakebites. Whereas the natives Americans, the Sioux and the Comanche, used it for toothaches, sore throat, and snakebites also. The herb has incredibly antiviral and antibacterial properties and helps aid the clearance of toxins from the body. Echinacea is most commonly taken to prevent and help with upper respiratory infections such as colds, flu and coughs. Clinical research into Echinacea has confirmed that it increases the number of white blood cells and their action. The polysaccharides inhibit the ability of viruses to take over cells, while alkylamides are antibacterial and antifungal. Research also supports the use of Echinacea to prevent colds and respiratory infections resulting from air travel.
This herb is so popular in the States. Many Americans know it as coneflower and have it growing in their gardens. We hope that you find this information helpful and can implement it into your lifestyle to improve your health! We also sell Echinacea tincture and glycerin at our shop, if you don't wish to make it yourself, although we encourage you to, as it's so easy and very inexpensive
Source: Encyclopédie of Herbal Medicine, FNIMH, Andrew Chevallier.