Echinacea has been a staple in health food stores for years for its ability to provide immune support.* Here's what you need to know about this pretty, and pretty useful, herb.
What Is It?
- A plant known as purple coneflower, often grown in gardens
- Several echinacea species are used in modern herbalism, including E. angustifolia and E. purpurea
How Does It Support Immune Health?
- Used as an antimicrobial by 19th-century Eclectic practitioners
- Scientific evidence supports use in helping to prevent, and possibly shorten the duration of, upper respiratory infections†
What Are Its Other Functions?
- Used by various Native American tribes as a mouthwash/gargle for sore mouth and/or throat†
- Has been used to help ease boils and other skin problems†
What Supplemental Forms Are Best?
- Echinacea is often used in combination with other nutrients and herbs as part of immune-support formulations
What Else Should I Know?
Gardeners appreciate echinacea for its ability to attract butterflies, and its protein-rich seeds help feed birds
†The information provided is not an endorsement of any product, and is intended for educational purposes only. NaturesPlus does not provide medical advice and does not offer diagnosis of any conditions. Current research on this topic is not conclusive and further research may be needed in order to prove the benefits described.The conditions and symptoms described may be indicative of serious health problems, and therefore should be brought to the attention of a qualified healthcare practitioner.
