Echinacea, a.k.a. coneflowers, are a group of flowering plants belonging to the daisy family. They are native to North America. Their use among the native Americans of the Great Plains region for alleviating various health issues dates for centuries. It is considered a popular ingredient in cold remedies.
What benefits does it have?
Echinacea is thought to bring the following benefits to health (ECHINACEA, 2021):
• Helps fight infections of the upper respiratory tract, flu, and the common cold
• Brings relief from rattlesnake bites, bee stings, and mosquito bites
• Applied to the skin to treat boils, yeast infections, abscesses, ulcers, wounds, eczema, psoriasis, and sun-related damage due to their antioxidant property (Brazier, 2020) (Kitts, 2000)
• Is used to bring relief from acid indigestion and rheumatoid arthritis
• Helps treat urinary tract infections
Can Echinacea protect against COVID-19:
Several reviews confirm the general preventive effects of certain species of Echinacea, specifically, Echinacea purpurea having shown to improve immune health against coronavirus infections in both adults and children. Echinacea has been shown to reduce symptom development, significantly reduced their viral loads, and shorten the duration of illness in children. Echinacea boasts antiviral effects against several other respiratory viruses, including respiratory syncytial virus and rhinoviruses.
How should I take it?
It can be consumed in fresh or dried form in teas. It can also be squeezed in juices, or taken as a supplement in the form of pills. Additionally, it can taken as an extract in capsule form, or can be applied as topical preparation on the skin (Brazier, 2020).
Who should not take it?
Although it is relatively safe when consumed in small doses for the short term, people who may be allergic to flowers should be cautious before using it, as some people develop rashes when it is applied to the skin. Research also shows that the likelihood of it interacting with other medications is low.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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