Echinacea is well known for stimulating the immune system. The North American Plains Indians used it medicinally more than any other plant and today it is used by millions of people worldwide.Unlike antibiotics which attack infection directly, echinacea builds up our immune cells to fight viruses and infections and therefore is an excellent disease preventative. It also helps lessen symptoms and speeds up recovery when getting infections. The polysaccharides, glycoproteins, alkamides, volatile oils, and flavonoids that are present are what gives Echinacea such excellent health properties.
Internally Echinacea helps with colds, flu, bronchitis, sore throat, thrush and urinary infections. Plus it reduces inflammation in arthritis. Externally it stimulates new tissue growth in wounds and is effective in the treatment of psoriasis and eczema.
Echinacea root was originally used by American and European herbalists but today the root, leaves, flowers and seeds are all used. Health Stores supply it in capsules, tablets, cream, extract, gel and also the dried root and leaves. Your Homeopath or health store staff will advise you on which is the most suitable for you to use for the purpose you require it and the dosage. Echinacea has an excellent safety record and is very well tolerated by most people.
Well worth geting a bottle of the extract to build up your immune system at the beginning of winter.
Warning: Echinacea is NOT RECOMMENDED FOR PEOPLE WITH MS because it boosts the immune system, which is already over-active in MS.
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Echinacea Lemon Comfort
2 tsp dried lemon thyme
2 tsp dried lemon balm
1-2 tsp dries loose echinacea
Place herbs in pre-warmed tea pot, pour 2 cups of boiling water over them, place lid on teapot, steep 5 minutes. Strain into cup and add 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice and sweetner to taste.
Source : IHA News
Tags : Echinacea Echinacea+tea herbs
