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Echinacea is a very popular herb in America today and has been used as a medicinal plant by Native Americans for centuries. In fact archeological evidence can trace this use for at least 400 years as a “cure-all” substance.
Widely used historically and throughout the world, Echinacea saw its uses reduced with the advent of antibiotics but its prescription by professional herbalists is still a priority even now.
General Uses
Echinacea is used to shorten common cold, and reduce flu symptoms such as sore throat (pharyngitis), fever and cough as well as way to help boost the immune system and help the body fight infections.
Echinacea contains active substances which enhance the activity of the immune system, reduce inflammation, relieves pain and has antiviral, antioxidants and hormonal effects. Urinary tract infections, ear infections (otitis media), vaginal yeast infection, hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Sinusitis, athlete’s foot, hay fever and slow healing wounds are conditions that Echinacea can help alleviate.
Precautions
Although the use of herbs is a time honored tradition and method of healing, herbs do contain substances that may trigger side effects and or interact with other herbs, supplements and even medications.
Echinacea has been given a class 1 safety rating by The American Herbal Products Association which indicates that it is safe when used appropriately.
It is not recommended to use this plant for more than 8 continuous weeks as its effect greatly diminishes after that. A break period after 8 weeks is therefore advised.
Because its properties as an immune system booster, Echinacea may interact with medications that are prescribed to boost the immune system,
For this reason, people receiving organ transplants and are on immunosuppressant medications should avoid this herb.
People with connective tissue disorders, diabetes, leukemia, tuberculosis, multiple sclerosis, HIV or AIDS, any autoimmune diseases, or, possibly, liver disorders should not take Echinacea.
Keywords: Echinacea angustifolia; Echinacea pallida; Echinacea purpurea; Purple coneflower This product is also available in Tablets
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