by S.D.B

Created on: January 17, 2010

Echinacea is a genus of nine species of herbaceous plants in the family Aseraceae, which are usually called purple cone flowers. The genus is from the Greek “ echino ”, meaning " spiny ”, because of the spiny central disk. Some species are used in herbal medicines and some others are cultivated in gardens for their showy flowers.

Echinacea angustifolia was abundantly used by the North American Plains Indians for its general in qualities in medicine. Echinacea was one of the basic antimicrobial herbs of eclectic medicine from the middle of 19th century through the early 20th century, and its use was documented for snakebite, anthrax and for relief of pain. In 1930 Echinacea became popular as an herbal medicine in both Europe and America.

Numerous studies and research have shown that among the plant's medicinal benefits, the principal are its effectiveness in boosting the body's immunity against viral, bacterial and fungal infections. One study reminded that some Echinacea supplements could have some anti-tumor properties. Marketed and studied medicinal products contain different species of Echinacea and different preparations of it. Their chemical composition is very different. Echinacea’s therapeutic properties are specially derived from its two active ingredients: echinacosides (which is found in the roots and flowers) and polysaccharide heteroxylan (found in the leaves).

Healing preparations made from the plant's leaves, flowers and roots help the body fight infections by stimulating the mucous membranes, liver and lymph nodes. Echinacea is a natural remedy, recommended for sinus infections, sore throat, tonsillitis, coughs, bladder problems and kidney infections. It also fights with germs and heals wounds. To treat lesions and fever blisters apply a cotton swab dipped in pressed Echinacea juice on affected area. For inflammations made by insect bites or burns, soak one part Echinacea juice and two parts water on a cotton compress and then apply it on the affected area. It reduces the inflammation and also helps kill germs.

A 2007 study made by the University of Connecticut combined findings from 14 previously-reported trials, examining Echinacea and concluded that Echinacea can cut the chances of catching a cold by more than half and shortens the duration of a cold by an average of almost one day and a half.

As a remedy for improving immunity to infections, Echinacea should be taken with the advice of a doctor or a physician, as a supplement. It can be found in commerce like Echinacea pills, tablets or liquids.Echinacea should not be taken for long periods of time, because the herb can over-stimulate the immune system, and is also not indicated for children less than 1 year.

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