What Is Echinacea?

One of the most popular herbal remedies in the world, Echinacea contains active ingredients thought to fight colds, flu, and other infections. There are nine species of this Herb, commonly called the purple coneflower, but just three (Echinacea angustifolia, E. pallida, and E. purpurea) are used medicinally. Various parts of the plant (flowers, leaves, stems, or roots) from a variety of species appear in literally hundreds of commercial preparations. Depending on the species and plant part used, the herb will stimulate the immune system and combat bacteria, viruses, and other disease-causing microbes.

Health Benefits Of Echinacea:

Both safe and powerful, Echinacea stimulates various immune system cells that are key weapons against infection. The herb also helps boost the cells production of a virus-fighting substance called Interferon.

Specifically, Echinacea may help to:

· Prevent the occurrence of or reduce duration of colds, flu, and sore throat.
If youve already got the aches, congestion, or fever common to colds or flu, Echinacea may cause these symptoms to be less severe and to subside sooner (1-3). However not all Echinacea extracts provide this benefit. A review of 16 studies found that Echinacea purpurea preparations made from the aerial parts of the plant were more effective at preventing the onset of colds (4). Proprietary preparations have also proven effective in stimulating the immune system and fighting colds. A study on 437 volunteers taking an Extract of Echinacea angustifolia demonstrated no efficacy in preventing or treating colds. Ask your doctor for his/ her recommendations regarding the most efficacious preparation to treat your particular symptom profile.

· Fight recurrent respiratory infections, such as bronchitis, sinusitis, strep throat, and earache.
The herbs immune-boosting properties make it particularly helpful for fighting chronic upper respiratory infections in adults and children. In a study of 524 children between the ages of 2 and 11 conducted during the winter months of 2000 – 2002, researchers found that the children who took Echinacea after the occurrence of the first upper respiratory tract infection, experienced 28% less recurrent infections. For best results, take Echinacea at the first sign of illness.

· Combat vaginal yeast and urinary tract infections.
As an immune-booster, Echinacea can be particularly helpful for fighting these recurrent infections (9). For yeast infections, the herb seems to stimulate white blood cells to destroy the yeast. Urinary tract infections can be helped by consuming extra fluids, including immune-boosting Echinacea tea, which helps wash away the bacteria.

· Promote healing of skin wounds and inflammations, including canker sores, burns, and cuts and scrapes.
As a natural Antibiotic and infection fighter, Echinacea promotes the healing of all kinds of skin irritations, including burns, cuts and scrapes, boils, abscesses, canker sores, and eczema, as well as herpes infections (including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles). More research It can be applied topically to a wound or be taken internally to strengthen the immune system.

· Treat chronic fatigue syndrome.
Echinacea is currently being studied as a possible treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome, a condition marked by profound and persistent exhaustion. One theory holds that this mysterious disorder represents the bodys response to a past viral infection that managed to permanently weaken the immune system. By bolstering the immune system and fighting any further viral (or bacterial) presence, Echinacea may help those who suffer from this disorder.

· Build immunity during cancer treatments and possibly protect against certain forms of cancer.
Rotating Echinacea with extracts of medicinal mushrooms may help to strengthen overall immunity during cancer treatments. Animal studies in mice have shown that regular supplementation with Echinacea may help to prevent the immune related disorders associated with aging (10). Since mice and humans share 97% of our genetic code researchers are excited about the potential of applying these research findings to humans (11). More research is needed to fully define Echinacea's possible role in fighting cancer in humans.

Forms of Echinacea:

1. Tincture

2. Tablet

3. Softgel

4. Lozenge

5. Liquid

6. Oried herb/tea

7. Capsule