Flower Power: Echinacea
This pretty purple flower is packed with infection fighters and natural antibiotics. It is believed to be the most widely used herb today, and is a smart mom's best defense against her family's ills. The roots are the most significant proven herbal immune system stimulant. There are no known side effects, but it should not be used by persons allergic to the plants in the sunflower family. It is used as an antiviral, antibiotic, antifungal, to reduce fevers and may help with allergies. It can be used topically for wounds and skin problems or internally for infections. Medicines are made in the form of tincture, teas, salves, and capsules.
Echinacea is used alone or in combination with other herbs like Goldenseal, Yarrow, and Cayenne. A partial list of illnesses Echinacea has been reported successful in treating includes: acne, colds, poisonous bites from spiders and snakes, ear infections, eczema, flu, fevers, gangrene, mouth sores, psoriasis, tonsillitis, strep throat, and wounds. It is especially effective in glandular conditions, since it also stimulates the lymphatic system. It is best used 5 days to 1 week at a time alternating one week on and one week off. Before using, check with your doctor to rule out complications with your own unique medical history.
I have used it in my own family after contact with someone with a cold or flu. We have escaped illness this way numerous times. If someone does get sick in our home, I give Echinacea to everyone at the very first hint of illness. Our experience has been that the sick person gets well much quicker and the well family members stay that way! We use it in capsule form for the adults and tinctures mixed in their orange juice for the children.
Making your own tinctures is easy. Take 1/3 of a quart jar filled with the dried herb and pour apple cider vinegar or alcohol (consumable) to fill. Shake every couple of days for 2-3 weeks and then strain off the herb leaving liquid. Always store your herbs in a dark, dry location. I use quart canning jars or recycled spaghetti sauce jars.
Capsules of Echinacea can be purchased in your local drug store. Read the label carefully and avoid products that do not contain any root. Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia are the two species used in most over the counter preparations.
Many people grow and harvest their own Echinacea. Please do not further deplete nature's supply by harvesting wild plants. You can purchase the dried herbs and make your own medicines.