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Photo copyright Steven Foster |
Echinacea
(Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia)
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Photo copyright Steven Foster |
Common name: Purple coneflower
Parts used and where grown: Echinacea is a wildflower native to North America. While echinacea continues to grow and is harvested from the wild, the majority of that used for herbal supplements is from cultivated plants. The root or above-ground part of the plant during the flowering growth phase is used medicinally.
In what conditions might echinacea be supportive?
| • canker sores (mouth ulcers) | • infection |
Historical or traditional use: Echinacea was used by American Indians for a variety of conditions, including venomous bites and other external wounds. It was introduced into U.S. medical practice in 1887 and was touted for use in conditions ranging from colds to syphilis. Modern research started in the 1930s in Germany.
Active constituents: Echinacea supports the immune system. Several constituents in echinacea team together to increase the production and activity of white blood cells, lymphocytes, and macrophages. Echinacea also increases production of interferon, an important part of the body’s response to viral infections such as colds and flu.1
How much should I take? As an immune system stimulant, echinacea is best taken for a specific period of time. At the onset of a cold, it can be taken three to four times per day for ten to fourteen days. To prevent a cold, many people take echinacea tablets or capsules three times per day for six to eight weeks. A “rest” period is recommended after this, as echinacea’s effects may diminish if used longer. If preferred, powdered echinacea, in about 900 mg amounts, can be taken. Liquid extracts are typically taken as 3-4 ml, three times per day.
Are there any side effects or interactions? Echinacea is essentially non-toxic when taken orally. People shouldn’t take echinacea without consulting a physician if they have an autoimmune illness, such as lupus, or other progressive diseases, such as tuberculosis or multiple sclerosis. Those who are allergic to flowers of the daisy family should take echinacea with caution. There are no known contraindications to the use of echinacea during pregnancy or lactation.
References:
1. Leuttig B, Steinmuller C, et al. Macrophage activation by the polysaccharide arabinogalactan isolated from plant cell cultures of Echinacea purpurea. J Natl Cancer Inst 1989;81:669-75.
Copyright © 1998 Virtual Health, LLC
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only.
