Traditional Roots

Traditionally Echinacea was first found to be used by Native American tribes and was adopted by a group of American physicians in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. By 1921, Echinacaea angustifolia (the root) was by far the most popular treatment prescribed by these physicians. Native Americans traded Echinacea angustifolia root and the quality of which was determined by chewing a small amount - the greater the tingling sensation the better it’s quality was considered to be. From historical information it is clear that Echinacea angustifolia root was highly valued and was used over the other varieties.

The clinical results of these American physicians are significant as they were using this Echinacea before antibiotics came into use. They found that regular use and high doses of Echinacea angustifolia root was very effective for the treatment of life threatening disorders such as snake bites, septicaemia, bacterial meningitis, cholera, dysentery and gangrene. It was effective for viral and bacterial infections.

Echinacea Uses

Echinacea has an immune stimulating effect, it modulates the immune function in allergies and autoimmunity. It enhances resistance to infections mostly of the upper respiratory tract (ear, nose and throat) and has an anti-inflammatory effect when used topically (on the skin).

When should Echinacea be used?

With knowledge of its traditional uses and our current scientific understanding of Echinacea’s effect when used by people, we know Echinacea can be used in the treatment of the following:

·         Long term use for the treatment of long-term immune system disorders

·         Treatment of acute infections

·         Prevention of infections

·         Treatment of allergies due to its immune modulating effect

·         For autoimmune disorders because of its immune modulating and anti-inflammatory effect

·         Treatment of slow healing wounds and ulcers

Myths about the use of Echinacea

Echinacea should not be used by people suffering from asthma. The latest research has actually shown that Echinacea root preparations are not only safe in asthmatics but are actually beneficial as it reduces the number of infections that lead to asthmatic attacks. However it is important to note that Echinacea preparations from the flowers of the plant should be avoided by asthmatics as they may have an allergic reaction to the pollens (that is if there is a known allergy to the daisy family of plants).

The length of time one uses Echinacea should be limited because it will deplete the immune system. This claim is unsubstantiated and it has actually been shown that using Echinacea root preparations increases the reactivity of the immune system. This was shown after taking Echinacea orally continually for over ten weeks.

Effective Daily Dosages

For preventative use or chronic conditions:

1-3g of Echinacea angustifolia root (tablets) and 2-6ml of a 1:2 liquid extract

1.5- 4.5g of Echinacea purpurea root (tablets) and 3-9ml of a 1:2 liquid extract

In Conclusion

One should be aware of the actual type of Echinacea preparation as most of the current research has shown Echinacea angustifolia root preparations to contain the active components, which modulate the immune system. You can confirm the presence of Echinacea angustifolia root by the tingling sensation in the mouth after sucking on a tablet for about 30seconds or when taking the mixture in liquid form.

Remember when taking medicine of any form listen to your body and if you do not feel good after taking something consult your health care practitioner.

Speak to your Homeopath or Naturopath about getting an Echinacea product with the correct proportions of the active ingredients.

(Ref: Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy, Simon Mills and Kerry Bone)