Echinacea has been in the spotlight for many years. This Native American medicinal plant is a popular herb, used to treat various types of health issues. The herb blooms with a purple flower and has prickly scales in its large conical seed head. According to archeological digs, echinacea may have been used for more than 400 years as a general cure-all. In ancient times it was used to treat ailments such as malaria, scarlet fever, diphtheria, syphilis and blood poisoning.
Using Echinacea for a Cold
There is a debate whether echinacea is actually effective when used as a home remedy to prevent or treat a cold. Various researches were conducted and it was discovered that if the herb is taken just at the onset of the cold, it can significantly reduce the symptoms. Some people have religiously used the herb and have found it to be quite useful. The echinacea herb contains a wide variety of chemicals, which plays an important role in its therapeutic effects. Some of the chemicals that are included are polysaccharides, glycoproteins, alkamides, volatile oils and flavonoids.
Other Uses for Echinacea
Echinacea is also commonly used to help build the immune system. When consumed, it stimulates the body to build additional immune cells. When used correctly, it can double or triple some types of immune cells as well as destroy certain types of viruses, fungi and bacteria. Although echinacea is a natural herb, precaution should be taken when taking certain types of supplements, herbs or medications. It is recommended that after taking the herb for a period of time, consumption should be stopped for at least a week or two.