Discover the benefits of echinacea for the body and skin! Echinacea is a popular and perennial herb native to North America. Dietary supplement sales are up 10% in the US Echinacea has tall stems with pink or purple flowers and a central cone that resembles a spiked comb. The cone is the head of the seed with pointed, sharp spines. Its alternative name is purple coneflower. This herb has been used throughout history for many ailments.
There are nine identified plant species, but only three are commonly used for medical purposes: Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida Y Echinacea purpurea. The medicine is made from its leaves, flowers and roots. The chemicals in the root differ from those in the upper plant. The roots have high concentrations of volatile oils. Above ground parts of the plant contain polysaccharides, substances that activate the immune system. Research suggests that the above-ground portion of Echinacea purpurea it is the most effective from a medicinal point of view.
Echinacea is available in different forms: dry herb, liquid extracts, tablets, capsules, juice, tea, ointments, and creams. It can be combined with other herbs. It can be purchased at most pharmacies, supermarkets, or health food stores.
Its flavor varies according to the mixes. May leave an unpleasant aftertaste of liquorice and alcohol. Try juicing one ounce of echinacea alone or mixing it with other fruits and vegetables for larger drinks. Fight colds, coughs, and upper respiratory infections with a combination of ginger, echinacea, and lemon in a homemade tea recipe!
Echinacea tincture is a super concentrated herbal medicine. It is usually made from alcohol. Apple cider vinegar or glycerin can be substituted for the alcohol. Homemade echinacea tincture is helpful to have at home for long-term illnesses.
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BENEFITS of ECHINACEA for the BODY – (Research is limited and inconclusive)
– Antiviral
– Stimulate the immune system
– Treat colds, flu, sore throat, enlarged lymph nodes, cough, bronchitis; upper respiratory infections
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BENEFITS of ECHINACEA for SKIN – (Research is limited and inconclusive)
– antibiotic
– Increase elasticity
– Soothes bee stings
– Improves hydration
– Reduce inflammation
– Treat abscesses, ulcers and boils.
– Treat acne, psoriasis and eczema.
– Heal burns, skin damage by UV radiation.
– Heal wounds and minor skin infections.
– Prevents the degradation of hyaluronan, a component of cartilage and synovial fluid. (Hyaluronan is known as the “sticky molecule”).
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POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS: (Some people experience side effects from echinacea.)
– Skin rash, especially in children
– Temporary numbness and tingling of the tongue (if taken by mouth)
– Allergic reactions: difficulty breathing, throat tightness, fainting
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WHEN TO AVOID ECINACEA
– An immunosuppressive drug
– Allergic to ragweed, marigolds, daisies, chrysanthemums or any plant of the Asteraceae family
– You have tuberculosis, leukemia, diabetes, connective tissue disorder, multiple sclerosis, HIV, AIDS, autoimmune disease, liver disorder
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PRECAUTIONS FOR USING ECHINACEA
– Consult your healthcare provider before taking echinacea if you are breastfeeding, pregnant, taking prescription medications, or under treatment for medical conditions.
– There is concern about the quality of echinacea on the market. Some products are mislabeled and may not contain echinacea. Read the instructions and labels well.