What is Echinacea used for?
Today, echinacea products are primarily promoted as a dietary supplement for the common cold and other respiratory tract infections, based on the idea that certain species of echinacea may stimulate the immune system. Echinacea, also known as the purple coneflower, is an herbal medicine that has been used for centuries, customarily as a treatment for the common cold, coughs, bronchitis, upper respiratory infections, and some inflammatory conditions.It is an herb of balance and protection. Echinacea is often used in spells for prosperity, drawing in money, and in defensive magic. It also has the power of amplification, enhancing the magical energies of others herbs, as well as magical tools used for spells and rituals. The Sacred Number of Echinacea is 141.Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida) is commonly used for the prevention of colds and other respiratory tract infections. Orally, it is also used as an antiseptic, antiviral, and immune stimulant.Echinacea seems to activate chemicals in the body that decrease inflammation. It might also increase the body’s immune system. Echinacea is most commonly used for the common cold and other infections, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.Echinacea should be avoided in patients with autoimmune disorders, multiple sclerosis, advanced HIV infection, tuberculosis, and organ transplants because it may stimulate T cells. Allergic reactions are possible in patients with allergies to ragweed, chrysanthemum, marigold, daisies, or related allergens.
Is Echinacea a pain killer?
Echinacea potential benefits have long been discussed as it’s been used as a traditional herbal remedy since at least the 18th century for a range of conditions like pain relief. Today, echinacea is most commonly based on traditional use only to help relieve symptoms of the common cold. The best time to achieve maximum immune response from echinacea is to take it immediately during the initial symptoms of a cold or flu. These may include a slight tickle in the throat, a runny nose, mild fatigue, or feeling unwell.Echinacea purpurea should be taken at first signs of common cold. Although it appears generally safe for most people, it can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominalabdominalrelating to the stomach and intestines pain, and heartburn.Using echinacea for longer than 8 weeks at a time might damage your liver or suppress your immune system. Herbalists recommend not to take echinacea if you are taking medicines known to affect your liver. Check with your doctor first if you are having any other drugs, herbs, or supplements.
Can Echinacea cause diarrhea?
Echinacea generally doesn’t cause problems for most people, but some people taking the herb have reported side effects such as stomach upset or diarrhea. Echinacea also has the potential to interact with other medications you might be taking, so talk with your doctor before using echinacea supplements. These symptoms may result from the body’s difficulty digesting certain compounds in echinacea or from its stimulating effect on the immune system. In some cases, taking echinacea on an empty stomach can make these symptoms worse.Most brands say you should avoid taking echinacea on an empty stomach. They recommend taking it with food or a large glass of water. Don’t take echinacea for more than a few weeks. The long-term safety has not been studied thoroughly.Figure 3: Echinacea stimulates macrophages and other cells of the innate immune system, causing them to become activated and release cytokines. Increases in phagocytic activity and the uptake of foreign particles also result following exposure of the immune cells to Echinacea.Echinacea contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body. Drinking organic echinacea tea may contribute to managing inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and promoting overall well-being. Echinacea has been traditionally used to support respiratory health.
What hormones are in echinacea?
The scent of echinacea triggers the release of dopamine, which is known as a hormone that controls happiness. Echinacea may also decrease levels of cortisol, which is commonly known as the stress hormone. A study published in Phytotherapy Research investigated the effects of echinacea on anxiety. Main Findings. Echinacea EP107™ reduced anxiety more effectively than the placebo according to HADS-A scores. The anxiolytic effects were observed more rapidly and were stronger than those of the placebo.
What is the local name for Echinacea purpurea?
Echinacea purpurea, commonly called purple coneflower, is a coarse, rough-hairy, herbaceous perennial that is native to moist prairies, meadows and open woods of the central to southeastern United States (Ohio to Michigan to Iowa south to Louisiana and Georgia). Echinacea angustifolia was used as an analgesic by the Cheyenne, the Dakota, the Fox, and the Winnebago (Moerman 1986). Purple coneflower is used as an antidote for poisonous conditions, snake bite, and other poisonous bites by the Winnebago, Ponca, Pawnee, Omaha, Dakota, and by most Montana tribes (Gilmore 1977).