Family:

Asteraceae

 

Part Used:

root, seed, and flowers.

 

Energetics & Taste:

Cooling, drying, and pungent.

 

Habitat:

Native to central parts of the U.S., Echinacea is threatened due to overharvesting, and only cultivated species should be purchased. It does well in various climates but prefers full sun and sand-drained soils.

Key Benefits: Echinacea is commonly used as an immune stimulant because it boosts the immune system. It stimulates the immune system in three ways: activating phagocytosis, stimulating fibroblasts to aid in forming connective tissues, and enhancing white blood cell activity. This makes echinacea highly effective against bacterial and viral infections like influenza and colds. It has a specific action on infectious conditions of the upper and lower respiratory systems, making it useful for bronchitis, tonsillitis, and laryngitis.

The slight tingling and numbing sensation you notice when tasting echinacea is due to isobutylamides, which have a mild anesthetic effect. Coupled with its antimicrobial properties, echinacea is often used in herbal mouth rinses for gingivitis and toothaches. Echinacea can be applied topically and internally for infectious skin conditions like boils. It is also effective for bee stings and bug bites, as it cools the area and modulates inflammation. Additionally, echinacea can be effective against venomous bites because it inhibits hyaluronidase, an enzyme in many venomous animals such as snakes, spiders, and scorpions.

 

Contraindications:

As an herb that stimulates the immune system, echinacea may not suit people with autoimmune diseases. It is best used as a fresh root tincture and should be taken short-term in large, frequent dosages at the sign of an infection.