Echinacea – what is it?
Echinacea is a plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. In nature, it is found only in sandy areas of the southeastern part of North America. The healing properties of Echinacea were discovered by the Indians. It was brought to Europe by the first European settlers who settled America. Due to the ease of cultivation due to low requirements, it has become popular in Europe.
Echinacea is a perennial plant. Completely frost-resistant. Stiff and rough stems are 90-100 cm high, sometimes growing up to 1.5 m. Despite its large size, Echinacea does not require additional support. The 20-centimeter leaves of Echinacea are intense green, oval-lanceolate in shape. A popular garden ornamental plant blooms from June to October.
Currently, three types of echinacea are important in the pharmaceutical industry: Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea pallidum, and Echinacea angustifolia. The raw materials used in the pharmaceutical industry are Echinacea root and herb.
Health Benefits of Echinacea
The raw materials used in the pharmaceutical industry are Echinacea root and herb.
The plant is commonly used to prevent and relieve symptoms of bacterial and viral infections. Among the advantages are:
- stimulates the immune system;
- fight against viruses, bacteria and fungi;
- relieves inflammation;
- anxiolytic effect;
- anticancer activity;
- antioxidant effect;
- reduces blood sugar levels;
- improves skin conditions prone to irritation, acne and blemishes.
Due to the high content of essential oils, antioxidants, organic acids, vitamins A, C and E in Echinacea, the medicinal effect of Echinacea is aimed at stimulating the functioning of our immune system and strengthening the body’s natural defenses, used in the fight against all pathogenic factors – both bacteria, as well as viruses.
Microelements (iron, calcium, selenium) affect the hematopoietic system, as well as the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue structures. Selenium in combination with vitamins C and E helps remove free radicals from the body. Antioxidants prevent the process of early aging of body cells, have an antitumor effect, stimulate bone marrow stem cells to produce more and stronger leukocytes,
Note! Recent research has shown an unusual feature of echinacea based on the fact that it directly attacks viruses, which is extremely rare in pharmaceutical preparations.
Another discovery associated with Echinacea was the fact that it stimulates the body’s production of a substance called “interferon”, which is a kind of catalyst for immune cells, stimulating their work, i.e., the destruction of infections.
It can be used not only for colds, but also for other conditions caused by viruses. An example is herpes, which also weakens our body.
Echinacea extract
It may be in the form of drops, capsules, tablets or syrup. It is important to start administering the drug when the first signs of infection appear. Echinacea extract should be taken for at least another 14 days.
You can prepare an infusion of dried echinacea herb yourself at home.
And ingredients :
- Echinacea purpurea: 1 teaspoon;
- natural honey: 1 teaspoon.
Preparation:
Bring a glass of water to a boil, add a teaspoon of dried echinacea and simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes. When the infusion has cooled, it is good to add a teaspoon of honey (for internal use). It significantly speeds up the healing process.
Additionally, there are other benefits that Echinacea has. Echinacea extract affects metabolism, stimulates the secretion of gastric, pancreatic and intestinal juices and the production of bile, therefore it is recommended for diseases of the digestive tract and inflammation of the biliary tract.
Echinacea is also used in cosmetology
It is useful in caring for all skin types, as it has regenerating, smoothing, moisturizing and protective properties against UV rays. However, due to its antibacterial and healing properties, it is better suited for oily and acne-prone skin.
Note! Echinacea has a rejuvenating effect on the skin. The properties of the plant make it possible to reduce skin pores and improve its color. Rubbing the face with echinacea infusion helps protect the skin from moisture loss. Thanks to this, the skin is more resistant to the formation of wrinkles, and the visibility of existing ones is reduced.
When used externally, the infusion treats skin problems. This is due to the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that Echinacea has. It is widely used in dermatological preparations to enhance the skin’s ability to regenerate. People struggling with eczema and inflammation should turn to plant-based preparations, which are found in gels and creams to treat wounds, ulcers and burns.
Echinacea for prevention
Echinacea is taken prophylactically as protection against viruses and bacteria. Echinacea products can be found in pharmacies. They come in the form of tea, capsules, tablets, liquid extracts or dried herbs.
After 8 weeks of taking the drug, you should take a 4-week break. During periods of increased risk of disease, that is, in spring and autumn, you can take echinacea for a longer period of time.
- Additional Information! It is good to use echinacea preparations after antibiotic treatment. Regular use of it along with probiotics is a way to naturally boost the body’s defenses. Purple Echinacea will allow the body, stressed by antibiotic treatment, to rest and gain new strength, and also increase the number of white blood cells – our protective barrier.
Purple Echinacea can be safely included as a dietary supplement in school-aged children (for example, in the form of herbal teas) who live in large groups of people every day and are subject to decreased immunity and frequent infections.
Echinacea treatment is also recommended for teenagers who often struggle with acne during puberty. The antibacterial and healing properties of this plant will naturally help soothe acne and inflammation.
Echinacea is a well-known and well-studied plant. However, like any raw material, it has some contraindications for use that are worth remembering.
