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Echinacea
The Master Immune Herb
Traditionally used by the native tribes of the North American plains for
a wide variety of conditions from snake bite to colds to cancer, this
amazing herb has acquired considerable respect - especially in the last
10 years. During this period research has been accumulating which supports
the conclusion that Echinacea stimulates and supports the functioning
of the immune system. It is useful for both the prevention and treatment
of many different types of infections and immune imbalances, particularly
colds and flu. In addition, the long-term experience of herbalists has
indicated that Echinacea is even more effective when synergistically combined
with other herbs. Echinacea is a non-specific immune enhancer. Its effectiveness
can therefore be enhanced by combining it with herbs which support the
tissues which are most vulnerable to the particular condition being treated.
The more specific the formula, the faster it works. Due to the close relationship
between the functions of the lymphatic and immune systems, the effectiveness
of Echinacea can be further enhanced, with or without the addition of
more specific herbs, by combining it with lymphatic herbs. It should also
be noted that many potential combinations of herbs are not synergistic.
One common example is Echinacea with goldenseal. This does not mean that
this combination will not work. However, it does mean that these two herbs
taken together are not any more effective than either of them taken individually.
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| How to Use Echinacea
As mentioned above, Echinacea - whether used alone or in a combination -
can be used for both the prevention and treatment of infections and immune-related
conditions. When being used for preventative purposes, it is taken 3 times
per day for periods of 1 to 2 weeks and then stopped for a period of time.
The weaker the person's immune system, the shorter the break. During the
cold and flu season, a typical individual who is relatively healthy might
take it one week per month. Although Echinacea is non-toxic even when taken
continuously over a period of months, it will lose it's effectiveness if
taken for prolonged periods without a break. When being used in the treatment
of chronic immune imbalances, Echinacea is taken as above except more often
(usually 3 to 4 times per day for 1 week out of 2 or 2 weeks out of 3).
In the case of acute infections such as colds and flu, begin by taking Echinacea
or an Echinacea combination every 1 to 2 hours until the worst of the symptoms
break, then slowly reduce the frequency of the dose as the symptoms improve.
Do not take it less than 3 times per day until several days after the condition has completely cleared up. It is also a good idea to take it for another
week after taking a 1 to 2 week break. Most herbs including Echinacea are
best taken on an empty stomach (at least 20 minutes before a meal or 2 hours
after). It is important to remember that the most common mistake made when
using this herb is waiting for a day or two after the onset of an infection
before heading off to the local health food store to pick some up. Be prepared!
Keep some Echinacea or an Echinacea combination or two in your house at
all times. The more specific the combination and the sooner you start taking
it, the faster it will work. It is usually possible to detect a cold or
flu coming on several hours to a day before the symptoms begin. Listen to
your body. If taken every hour or two at this point Echinacea will often
prevent the infection from developing at all! |
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Choosing
Your Echinacea
There are a number of different species of Echinacea that are available
in many different forms. The two species most commonly used are
- Common purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
- Narrow-leaved purple coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia).
Also available commercially
- Pale purple coneflower (Echinacea pallida) .
- Tennessee coneflower (Echinacea tennesseensis)
is one endangered species, and should not be purchased if available.
The three common species can be used interchangeably.
When choosing an Echinacea product there are a number of factors which
should be considered. Firstly, the most active part of this plant is the
root. The best Echinacea products therefore contain either roots only
or no more than 10% leaves, seeds and/or flowers.
Fresh roots are far more effective than dry
roots. The form of choice is the fresh plant tincture, especially the
alcohol-based tincture. Glycerin does not produce a complete extract,
nor is it an effective preservative. However, some of the components
of Echinacea are complex carbohydrates which can break down in the presence
of high alcohol concentrations. An Echinacea tincture should therefore
not contain more than 35% alcohol. The effectiveness of Echinacea can
be enhanced by combining more than one species and/or by combining it
with other herbs which are synergistic in their actions. Finally, Echinacea
and other herbs with which it is combined should be certified organic
or wildcrafted.
Towards a Healthier Immune
System
Fortunately, it is possible to reduce our exposure to and the impact of
the many physical and psychological sources of stress which negatively
effect the functions of the immune and lymphatic systems. Eating low on
the food chain with an emphasis on natural organic fruits, vegetables,
grains and legumes is important, as is getting sufficient exercise, rest
and relaxation. In addition to the obvious benefits for the circulatory
and respiratory systems, exercise also stimulates lymphatic drainage without
which the immune system can not function efficiently. Foods such as dairy
products which promote the production of excess mucus also have a tendency
to clog up the lymphatic system and their intake is best reduced or avoided
as much as possible.
Disciplines such as meditation, yoga, and tai chi can help one to better
deal with stress and maintain a more positive attitude in life. Excessive
worrying about our health, diet, etc., invariably does more harm than
good. It is also advisable to avoid the use of synthetic substances in
cosmetics, clothing, household cleaners, etc..
Many of these choices will also help to ensure that we are contributing
less to environmental pollution and thereby reduce the impact of our lifestyle
on the global 'immune system.' Since it is impossible to avoid all environmental
toxins and sources of stress in our lives, supplementation with good quality
natural anti-oxidants and regular juice fasting once or twice per year
may also be helpful. In addition, there are many herbs which have a long
tradition of use to support the immune system.
© 1995-2002 Faunus Herbs Inc.
All rights reserved
Nick Morcinek
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