Echinacea, known as folk medicine, is a plant renowned for its effects on winter infections such as the common cold and for its real ability to boost the immune system.
Originally from North America, highly prized by the great Native American tribes, echinacea is a powerful body cleanser and an excellent antiseptic.
Although somewhat lesser-known, it remains a reliable choice for stimulating blood and lymphatic circulation, increasing the efficiency and dissemination of white blood cells, and thus reducing symptoms.
What are the different characteristics of echinacea?
Echinacea is a plant belonging to the Asteraceae group. These originate from North America.
For many years, they were used by the Native Americans of the North American plains, thanks in particular to their numerous medicinal benefits. The last true herbalists still in existence are very willing to offer echinacea. It should be noted that there are three species of echinacea that can be used as supplements:
- Echinacea angustifolia.
- Echinacea purpurea.
- Echinacea pallida.
What are the uses for echinacea?
Natural defenses and pain
A meta-analysis (meaning a study of studies), based on more than 54 studies, demonstrated the effects of echinacea.
Indeed, it reduces the likelihood of catching a cold by about 58% and, on average, shortens the duration of a cold by a day and a half. This is why this plant is effective both in prevention and during a cold. It should also be noted that taking echinacea for ten days would stimulate the immune system.
In addition to its action on the immune system, the plant appears to be extremely useful for individuals with regular infections. The traditional use of Echinacea was mainly related to its ability to reduce pain. Indeed, this plant can help cope with physical ailments. Here is a list of these:
- Intestinal problems.
- Headaches.
- Throat irritations.
- Stomach aches.
- Tonsillitis.
- And finally, toothaches.
Laxative and anti-inflammatory
Like many other plants, echinacea is extremely relevant when it comes to caring for the stomach and the digestive tract in general. Thus, it can be used as a mild natural laxative to deal with constipation problems.
Furthermore, it should be noted that according to some studies, echinacea would effectively combat inflammation. Indeed, it reverses and relieves various effects.
Skin problems, respiratory issues, and infections
Echinacea is very relevant in combating skin problems. Additionally, it can also help the skin regenerate. Traditionally, this plant was used against problems such as eczema, skin inflammations, and insect bites.
Moreover, through its immune and anti-inflammatory characteristics, this plant also helps in the following cases:
- Sinusitis.
- Cold.
- Flu.
- Asthma.
- And finally, coughing fits.
Finally, it is worth noting that echinacea is a very good natural remedy for various infections. Thus, it will help deal with vaginal, blood, and urinary infections.
In what form should echinacea be taken?
There are echinacea capsules, which are derived from dry extracts. Unfortunately, dried plant material has fewer active ingredients than freshly harvested, living plants.
We recommend taking echinacea in the form of a full suspension of fresh plants (SIPF), a process that ensures the preservation of all active ingredients (the totum). The principle is simple: the entirety or totum of the freshly harvested plant is immediately suspended, i.e., in a liquid that preserves it, after harvesting.
The fresher the echinacea is harvested, the more effective it will be.