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Echinacea Purpurea, also known as Purple Coneflower, Coneflower, Black Sampson, and Snakeroot, is native to North America, and is one of the most popular herbs today in both North America and Europe. The name Echinacea is derived from the Greek meaning "hedgehog", referring to the sharp pointed bracts of the receptacles. Echinacea purpurea has been used for hundreds of years. Echinacea was first used in Native American sweat lodges to help the participants endure extreme temperatures. It was a popular medicine in America during the 1920's, but fell into disuse with the introduction of sulfa drugs. With natural antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, Echinacea purpurea is best know for its ability to kick-start the immune system, stimulating the production of white blood cells. Echinacea purpurea contains iron, iodine, copper, potassium, sulphur, and Vitamins A, E and C. Echinacea also contains polysaccharides, resembling bacteria, which motivate the healthy white blood cells attack bacterial invaders. Echinacea offers the body an overall feeling of well being, and for this reason studies of Echinacea continue today. Contributing to the bodies natural ability to fight infection, Echinacea is commonly referred to as the natural antibiotic and commonly used to fight infection caused by common colds and flu. Echinacea may also be used for reducing inflammation caused by respiratory problems, bronchitis, strep throat and enlarged prostate glands. Echinacea also has fat-soluble flavonoids, luteolin, Quercetin, and Rutin. Also present are the potent free radical scavengers safely derivatives which are said to protect the skin from sun damage. The high molecular weight polysaccharide fractions are surely involved in stimulating the immune response. |
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Echinacea Angustifolia is a member of the sunflower family. The bulk of the research on Echinacea has been conducted in Europe. This herb is one of the most popular herbs today in both North America and Europe. It was used in Native American sweat lodges to help the participants endure extreme temperatures. Echinacea was used by Native Americans 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. It was a popular medicine in America during the 1920's, but fell into disuse with the introduction of sulfa drugs. Modern research started in the 1930s in Germany. The root and/or the above-ground part of the plant during the flowering growth phase are used in herbal medicine. Echinacea, having both an antibacterial and antiviral action, is one of the best remedies for helping the body rid itself of microbial infections. It may be used in the treatment of boils, abscesses, carbuncles, septicaemia and other such infections, and when combined with other appropriate herbs, it may be used for any infection anywhere in the body. It has been shown to improve the body's resistance to infections such as colds and influenza; it also stimulates the lymphatic vascular system and fibroblasts. It should be taken in small, frequent doses as soon as flu-like symptoms appear. It is of particular value in laryngitis, tonsillitis, and catarrhal conditions of the nose and sinus. The tincture or decoction may be used as a mouthwash in the treatment of pyorrhea and gingivitis. Echinacea may also be applied as a lotion to infected sores and wounds, and it promotes the healing of old wounds and ulcers. A wash of Echinacea can help relieve the itching of urticaria and this treatment is also useful for stings and bites. |
