Echinacea, also known as purple coneflower, is a popular herb that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. But what are the best uses for Echinacea and when was it first used?
What are the best uses for Echinacea?
Echinacea is commonly used to boost the immune system and fight off infections. Studies have shown that Echinacea can reduce the risk of catching a cold by up to 58% and shorten the duration of a cold by 1.4 days. It is also used to reduce inflammation, treat upper respiratory infections, and alleviate symptoms of the flu.
When was Echinacea first used?
Echinacea has a long history of use by Native American tribes in North America. The Plains Indians used Echinacea to treat various ailments, including toothaches, sore throats, and snake bites. European settlers learned about the herb from the Native Americans and began using it for its medicinal properties in the 18th century.
Today, Echinacea is widely available in various forms, including capsules, teas, and extracts. It continues to be a popular natural remedy for boosting the immune system and fighting off infections.
” More information is needed before a definitive statement about the efficacy of echinacea can be made. Future work needs to clearly identify the species of echinacea and distinguish between the efficacy of the different plant parts (roots versus upper plant parts). Although many of the active compounds of echinacea have been identified, the mechanism of action is not known, nor is the bioavailability, relative potency, or synergistic effects of the active compounds known. Interpretation of existing literature suggests that echinacea should be used as a treatment for illness, not as a means for prevention of illness. The consensus of the studies reviewed in this article is that echinacea is indeed effective in reducing the duration and severity of symptoms, but that this effect is noted only with certain preparations of echinacea. Studies show that the plant and its active components affect the phagocytic immune system, but not the specifically acquired immune system”
Leave a comment