by Judith C Evans

Created on: January 08, 2010

Echinacea, also known as “purple coneflower” and “Sampson root,” is often the first herbal remedy an individual will try.  Two of the nine species of this herb are used medicinally: Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia.  Some herbalists prepare remedies from parts of the entire plant, but most use only the rootstock.  This perennial is easily recognized by its flower of large pale-purple rays and conical orange center.  Hairy leaves, tapered at both ends, grow along its thick bristly stem.  Indigenous to America, echinacea grows to a height of two to four feet along woodland trails, in prairies, and in gardens in the central and eastern United States.

Native American healers and colonial settlers valued echinacea’s healing properties, but the herb fell into disuse until the 1970’s.  Echinacea supplements are now widely used, and are easily obtained in health food stores, pharmacies, and even supermarkets.  Although it is most well-known as a cold and flu remedy, herbalists recommend echinacea for ailments ranging from eczema to bladder infections. Its medicinal properties include: antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiviral, and digestive.  Echinacea strengthens and supports the immune system by activating leukocytes, the white blood cells which fight infections.  It increases the body’s level of properdin, a chemical which activates the immune system’s response against viruses and bacteria.  It also increases the body’s production of interferon, a substance which prevents the replication of viruses. 

Herbalists recommend using echinacea in tincture form.  A dose is 1 drop of tincture per 2 pounds of body weight.  German studies from the past fifty years have shown that for acute illnesses such as cold, flu, or bladder infections, intake should begin at the onset of symptoms. Herbalist Gail Edwards recommends 1 dose every 2 or 3 hours for the first 2 days.  Take 2 to 4 doses daily until symptoms subside, and then for 1 week afterward.  For sore throats, prepare a gargle from 20 drops of tincture in half a cup of warm water.  Individuals preparing for surgery can bolster their immune systems with echinacea tincture; herbalist Susun Weed recommends 25 drops of tincture 1 to 3 times daily beginning 3 days before surgery and continuing for 7 to 10 days afterword.

Echinacea can strengthen the immune system in individuals

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