Echinacea

Echinacea (purple coneflower) is a herb native to midwestern North America. Echinacea has been long used with proven efficacy to treat infections. German researchers put this herb up on the herbal therapy map. The portions of the plant used for medicinal purpose include the aerial portion, the whole plant including the root, and the root itself. The important constituents from a pharmacological perspective are 1) polysacchrides 2) flavonoids 3) caffeic acid derivatives 4) essential oils 5) polyacetylenes 6) alkylamides

Effective for:

• Cancer
• Common cold
• Speeds up recovery from infections
• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Vaginal yeast infections

Supplements:
Freeze-dried Echinacea powder achieves the best result. The liquid extract, freshly pressed juice and Echinacea tea are good as well.

Recommended Dose:

• Freeze-dried powdered form 325-650 mg 
• Tinctures (1:5) 3 -4 ml 
• Fluid extract (1:1) 1-2 ml 

Side effects and precautions:
Echinacea is not toxic when used at recommended doses.