Additional Information

History

Echinacea was used medicinally by Native Americans for centuries. History indicates that at least fourteen tribes included echinacea in herbal treatments for coughs, colds, and infections. In 1887, the herb was reintroduced into American medical practice. During the 19th century, echinacea began to fall out of favor in America while gaining popularity in Europe.

Bodily Functions Echinacea Assists

Although scientific research of echinacea has yielded mixed results, the herb may help to bolster the immune system, reduce the duration of colds, and fight harmful bacteria in some individuals. In one clinical study, patients using echinacea had a cold for an average of six days, as compared to patients taking a placebo who had a cold lasting an average of nine days. Other clinical trials have shown that echinacea had no effect on the duration of a cold whatsoever. No clinical trials have indicated that echinacea will reduce the severity of cold symptoms.

Foods High in Echinacea

Echinacea is most commonly found in pill form as a dietary supplement.

Ailment That Echinacea Eliminates:

• May reduce the length of the common cold
• Stimulates parts of the immune system
• Fights harmful bacteria
• Fights viral infections
• May increase the rate at which wounds heal

Side Effects/Pre-Cautions:

• Women who are pregant or nursing should avoid echinacea
• Consult your doctor if you have an autoimmune disorder before taking echinacea
• Many dietary supplement claiming to contain echinacea are using low-quality herbs or no echinacea at all
• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Constipation
• Headache
• Dermatitis
• Allergic reactions in some rare cases