The herb Echinacea purpurea goes by the names echinacea, purple coneflower, coneflower, American coneflower and the plant species that are classified as the herb include Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea pallida.
Echinacea has traditionally been used to treat or prevent colds, flu, and other infections. Many people believe that it can stimulate the immune system to help fight infections. It can also be used to treat wounds and skin problems such as acne or boils.
The stems, leaves and roots are used fresh or dried to make teas, squeezed (expressed) juice, extracts, or preparations for external use.
Although many experts in alternative medicine support the use of the herb, there is no scientific evidence that it has any effect. Studies indicate that echinacea does not appear to prevent colds or other infections, nor does it appear to shorten the duration of a cold or a bout of flu.
Like any plant or herb treatment, Echinacea can also have side effects, including allergic reactions. Some people get rashes, more asthma and even anaphylaxis. More commonly, however, as the herb is usually taken as a tea, the side effects are usually on the stomach and gastrointestinal system.
Echinacea has traditionally been used to treat or prevent colds, flu, and other infections. Many people believe that it can stimulate the immune system to help fight infections. It can also be used to treat wounds and skin problems such as acne or boils.
The stems, leaves and roots are used fresh or dried to make teas, squeezed (expressed) juice, extracts, or preparations for external use.
Although many experts in alternative medicine support the use of the herb, there is no scientific evidence that it has any effect. Studies indicate that echinacea does not appear to prevent colds or other infections, nor does it appear to shorten the duration of a cold or a bout of flu.
Like any plant or herb treatment, Echinacea can also have side effects, including allergic reactions. Some people get rashes, more asthma and even anaphylaxis. More commonly, however, as the herb is usually taken as a tea, the side effects are usually on the stomach and gastrointestinal system.
