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All articles are commissioned by and represent the sole copyright of, The Health Network Company (NZ) Ltd. Reproduction, duplication and/or transfer by any means electronic or otherwise is strictly prohibited. Breach of copyright will be pursued to the full extent of any applicable laws. Disclaimer If you are concerned about your health or treatment, always see your own doctor.
These health guides are no substitute for proper diagnosis and treatment from your own health professional.
Echinacea
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E. angustifolia, E.purpurea
Echinacea was traditionally used by the North American Indians as a remedy for snake bites, and sore throat. As early as the 1800s, this herb had been used by physicians with sucess for the treatment of severe wounds.
There are three primary species of Echinacea used medicinally. They are E.purpurea, E.pallida and E.angustifolia. Each has its own unique chemical make-up and specific uses. But more recently, E.purpurea has been favoured and extensively studied in Europe, in the treatment of colds and flu. It has been found that it can stimulate the immune system and has direct antiviral activity that reduces cold symptoms and duration. It has shown to be a very safe herb with no known toxicity.
It has also been found to contain polysaccharides, which can promote wound healing through enhancing collagen structure. Polysaccharides work by stimulating the activity of the white blood cells (especially, t-lymphocytes). Activation of the T-cells increases the production of interferon and enhances macrophage activity and antibody binding. A study done in 1978 had found that echinacea extract can destroy both herpes and flu viruses.
Echinacea helps to enhance the immune system against colds and flu and other infection, by helping to boost immunity. It is a good herb to use to combat cold and flu, other viral, bacterial and fungal infections.
It is also recommended for the treatment of ear infection,and vaginal infection. During acute infections, such as colds and flu, tonsilitis and laryngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, take a higher dosage more frequently to get relief.
It can also be used a for blood purification. As a preventive measure, echinacea is taken prior to winter or a known period of stress and exposure to avoid any occurrence of infections, such as colds and flu. Although a safe herb with no known toxicity, those with a tendency towards allergies should exercise caution.
References
- Tierra M.The Way of Herbs. New York. Pocket Books. 1990.
- Black P. The Illustrated Herbal. Hamlyn. 1987
- Boxer A, Black P.The herb Book. Reed International Books Limited. 1980.
- Burch E (N.D.).The Complete Herbal Companion.Harper Collins 2000
- L’Orang D.The Herbal Healing Secrets of the Orient.Prentice Hall 1998
- Tierra M.The ways of Chinese Herbs.Pocket Books. 1998.
- Liu HC.Chinese System of Food Cures.Pelandok Publication.1989.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD, Hsu CS, PhD. Commonly Used Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute, 1980.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD. How to Treat Yourself with Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute. 1993.
- Murray M, Pizzorno J.The Encyclopaedia of Natural Medicines. Prima Pub. 1998.
- Tierra L.The Herbs of Life.Freedom, CA. Crossing Press. 1992.
- Dr.Walker M.Olive leaf extract. Kensington books. 1997
- Kloss J, Promise M.Back to Eden, revised version. Mass Market Paperback. 1989.
- Prevention Magazine (editors).The complete book of natural & medicinal cures. Health books. Berkley Publishing Group, 1996.
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