EchinaceaThe Echinacea is an herbaceous flowering plant of the daisy family, Asteraceae, which comprises of 9 species of purple coneflowers. Its name is derived from the Greek word exivos, which means hedgehog because of spiny central disk. Abundant in the eastern and central North America, the medicinal herb proliferates in moist to dry prairies and even in the open wooded areas. In early summer, the plants start to bloom large pink to purple flowers. Its leaves—both in the basal and cauline— are hairy having rough texture and uniseriate trichomes. The basal leaves, as well as those in the lower stems have petioles, which decrease in length as the leaves progress up the stem. Because it is a drought-tolerant perennial, it can grow up to 140 cm in height. The stems of the medicinal herb are erect and mostly branch less. Some species of the herb are used for medicinal purposes. These are the angustifolia, pallid, and purpurea. More than 400 years ago, this herb had been used by Native Americans to cure infections and wounds. It was also believed to be a cure-all herb. Thereafter, people have been using Echinacea to cure syphilis, scarlet fever, blood poisoning, diphtheria, and malaria. However, in the 18th and 19th centuries, the medicinal usage of this plant declined in the United States as antibiotics were introduced. Its fame does not waver in Germany throughout the 20th century. In contrast, most scientific researches on medicinal herb have been done in Germany. At the present, this herb is used by people to shorten the days of having cold and flu and reduce their symptoms. It is also used to cure sore throat such as pharyngitis, fever, and cough. Herbologists concoct the herb to boost the immune systems.Based on the scientific studies, the plant has active substances that can improve the performance of the immune system, mitigate the inflammation, relieve pain, and promote effects such as antioxidant, antiviral, and hormonal. These chemical substances include glycoproteins, volatile oils, polysaccharides, alkamides, and flavanoids. The amalgam of these active substances has a key role in its beneficial effects. Thus, herbologists recommend the herb in treatment of urinary tract infections, vaginal yeast infection, athlete’s foot, ear infections, sinusitis, slow-healing wounds, and hay fever. In 14 clinical trials review, it has been found out that Echinacea can lower the odds of developing cold by 58% and the duration of cold by at least 1 to 4 days. Echinacea BenefitsThe plant has a cone-shaped flowering head. This is why it is also known as the purple coneflower. Despite its other name, the Echinacea plant is not always purple.This plant is actually used by many people for decorative purposes due to its attractive appearance. Some grow the flower just for the intent of using if for decorations. However, the herbs benefits are also recognized worldwide as it effectively treats various diseases. The herb is primarily known for curing the common cold. In fact, doctors recommend their patients to take doses of this herb regularly. Health experts believe it is one of the most effective defenses against flu, colds, and other infections. A lot of people follow this doctors’ advice just to avoid getting sick. The Echinacea benefits our body by increasing their performance of the antibodies. Antibodies protect the body by fighting off infections. Echinacea herb improves the immune system, which reduces the risk of catching certain diseases. Scientific studies revealed that the herb activates the phagocytosis process in the body, thus capable of removing cell debris and pathogens. Regular intake of the purple coneflower also helps the person avoid acquiring serious illnesses like the deadly cancer. Through Echinacea, you are building your body’s protection system. This makes the cells in your body ready to combat cancerous cells. This beneficial herb is beneficial with regards to eternal wounds. It reduces the swelling that usually comes with any injuries. It makes the wound heal quickly as it promotes the growth of tissues in the affected area. Treating migraines, indigestions, as well as yeasts infections are also on the list of benefits. Another benefit is the ability to control the access of bacteria in the body’s cells. Catching an infection is greatly reduced when bacteria cannot infect the healthy cells. More benefits include healing wounds quite effectively. Curbing the growth of bacteria is definitely possible with this plant. The herb has three parts; the flower, leaf, and root. Each part can be used in many ways with various effects. You could even make juice extracts out of these parts. Note though, that these extracts are commonly used externally. You may apply it on wounds, for instance. Moreover, the root and leaves can be dried and kept for future use. When you have an antioxidant and antiviral treatment such as the Echinacea, you would surely want to grow them in your garden.
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