Harvesting
The root is harvested in Autumn after the second year of growth.
Properties
Alterative (depurative), anti-microbial, immune modulating, anti-inflammatory, lymphatic, vulnerary, sialagogue
Indications
· The active constituent of Echinacea preparations are the alkylamides, which cause a strong tingling sensation on the tongue, and stimulate production of saliva
· Treatment and prevention of infections of all kind, especially upper respiratory tract infections, sinusitis, colds and influenza (flu)
· Treatment of bacterial, viral and protozoal infections of the digestive, respiratory and urinary tracts, as well as STIs
· Use for septicaemia, cystitis, nasopharyngeal catarrh, respiratory catarrh, chronic bronchitis
· Use internally and externally in the treatment of inflammatory and purulent (bacterial) skin conditions including acne, boils (furunculosis), and abscesses.
· Use in chronic infective patterns, especially in children (e.g. tonsillitis)
· Enhancing immune response in healthy individuals. Can be taken preventatively by teachers, early childhood workers, medical practitioners, and anyone exposed to infection.
· Envenomation (snakebites, spider bites)
· For states of weakened immunity including those undergoing chemotherapy
· For states of weakened or imbalanced immunity including allergies, autoimmune diseases, cancer, and post viral syndromes
· For recurrent candidiasis
· Use externally to promote healing especially of old or poorly healing wounds and ulcers, inflamed skin conditions including eczema, and bacterial infections
Dosage
20 – 100 ml per week of 1:2 liquid extract
Take 5 – 10 ml immediately if you feel symptoms of infection, and up to 30 ml per day in divided doses during acute infection
Associated Herbs
· With sage or myrrh for chronic infections of the mouth and throat
· With milk thistle and Astragalus for chronic hepatitis and tiredness following glandular fever
· With Calendula or burdock for boils, skin and pelvic infections
· With garlic for persistent colds and minor infections
· With Thuja and Baptisia for sinusitis (K Bone)
Cautions and Contraindications
· Caution is advised for organ transplant patients taking immunosuppressive drugs
· Allergic responses are unlikely using root extracts
