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Echinacea, 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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Siberian Ginseng is not considered a 'true ginseng' because it is of a different genus than other popular ginsengs such as the Panax and American varieties. Containing niacin, amino acids, carbohydrates and other vitamins and minerals, Siberian Ginseng has been used to promote an overall sense of well-being. Siberian Ginseng nutritionally supports the glandular system. Herbalists call this herb an "adaptogen", which means that it helps the body adapt to any situation which normally would alter its function. The eleutherosides have been shown to be responsible for the adaptogenic properties of the plant. The eleutherosides are a range of glycosides with aromatic alcohol aglycones. The glycosides appear to act on the adrenal glands, helping to prevent adrenal hypertrophy and excess corticosteroid production in response to stress. The eleutherosides additionally help reduce the exhaustion phase of the stress response, and return the adrenals to normal function faster. As a result, Siberian Ginseng has a beneficial effect on the heart and circulation. It has been shown to increase energy and stamina, and to help the body resist viral infections, environmental toxins, radiation, and chemotherapy. In Chinese Medicine, it has been used to prevent bronchial and other respiratory infections, as well as viral infections. The Chinese used the root to provide energy and vitality, to increase resistance, and to treat rheumatic diseases and heart ailments. Siberian Ginseng has also been used in cardiovascular and neuro-vascular conditions to help restore memory, concentration, and cognitive abilities which may be impaired from poor blood supply to the brain. Additionally, Siberian Ginseng is a popular herbal remedy for debility, depression, fatigue, and nervous breakdowns. |
