Echinacea purpurea: Nature's Immune Booster

INCI Name: ECHINACEA PURPUREA EXTRACT
CAS Number: 90028-20-9
EINECS/ELINCS No: 289-808-4

Echinacea, also known as the purple coneflower, is a group of flowering plants in the daisy family, native to North America. The most commonly used species for medicinal purposes are Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, and Echinacea pallida. 

Echinacea herbs, including the roots, flowers, and leaves, have been traditionally used in herbal tisanes primarily for their potential immune-boosting and supportive properties. Here's a breakdown of its traditional uses:

• Colds and Flu: Perhaps echinacea's most well-known use is for shortening the duration and lessening the severity of cold and flu symptoms. It's believed to stimulate immune function to help fight off infections.
• Upper Respiratory Infections: Echinacea has been used for conditions like sinus infections, sore throat, and tonsillitis.
• Wound Healing: Echinacea was traditionally applied topically to minor wounds and skin infections due to its potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Other Traditional Uses: While less prominent, echinacea has also been used in traditional medicine for:
  • Urinary tract infections

  • Boosting general immune system function

     

Important Considerations

• Safety: Echinacea is generally well-tolerated in the short term. Possible side effects can include nausea, stomach upset, or allergic reactions.
• Long-Term Use: It's not generally recommended to take echinacea for extended periods without consulting a healthcare professional.
• Interactions: Echinacea might interact with some medications, so always check with your doctor if you're taking any.

Botanical Description

Echinacea purpurea is characterized by:

• Height: 1 to 1.5 meters tall
• Flowers: Large, purple, daisy-like blooms with distinctive spiky central cones
• Leaves: Dark green, coarse, and lance-shaped
• Blooming period: Throughout summer

Wellbeing Properties

The benefits of Echinacea purpurea include:

• Immune system support: Enhances the body's natural defense mechanisms
• Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation throughout the body
• Antiviral: May help combat various viral infections
• Wound healing: Promotes faster healing of cuts and abrasions
• Respiratory health: Supports the upper respiratory tract

Active Compounds

The medicinal efficacy of Echinacea purpurea is attributed to several bioactive compounds:

• Alkamides
• Polysaccharides
• Glycoproteins
• Caffeic acid derivatives
• Flavonoids
• Essential oils

Preparation

For optimal potency, harvest Echinacea purpurea when the flowers are in full bloom. Both the above-ground parts (leaves and flowers) and the roots can be used medicinally.

Preparation methods:

1. Tincture:
   • Chop fresh or dried herb
   • Cover with 80-proof alcohol
   • Macerate for 4-6 weeks
   • Strain and store in dark bottles
2. Tea:
   • Use 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup of boiling water
   • Steep for 10-15 minutes
   • Drink up to 3 cups daily
3. Capsules:
   • Fill with dried, powdered herb
   • Typical dosage: 300-500 mg, 3 times daily

Usage and Dosage

Echinacea purpurea is most effective when used at the first sign of illness or for short-term immune support. Recommended usage:

• Duration: 1-2 weeks at a time
• Frequency: Take a break of 1-2 weeks before resuming use

Caution: Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Commercial Applications

Echinacea purpurea extract is widely used in the cosmetics and personal care industry. Its functions in formulations include:

• Moisturizing
• Skin conditioning
• Tonic properties

By incorporating Echinacea purpurea into your herbal practice or garden, you can harness its powerful immune-boosting properties and enjoy its beautiful blooms throughout the summer months.

Echinacea can be prepared and used in several ways:

Tincture:

• Chop fresh or dried echinacea
• Place in a glass jar and cover with 80 proof vodka
• Let sit for 6-8 weeks, shaking occasionally
• Strain and store in dark bottles

Tea:

• Use 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup of boiling water
• Steep for 10-15 minutes
• Drink 3 times daily

Capsules:

• Fill gelatin or vegetable capsules with dried, powdered echinacea

Salve:

• Infuse echinacea in oil
• Melt with beeswax to create a healing salve

Dosage

For adults:

• Tincture: 2-3 ml, 3 times daily
• Tea: 1 cup, 3 times daily
• Capsules: 300-500 mg, 3 times daily2

Use for 1-2 weeks at a time, with a break before resuming.

Precautions

• May cause allergic reactions in some individuals
• Not recommended for people with autoimmune disorders
• Consult a healthcare provider before use if pregnant, nursing, or taking medications

Store in a cool, dry place, away from light. Keep tightly closed, away from the reach of Children and pets.

Do not exceed the daily dose.

This product is not intended to prevent or cure any form of illness or disease.
 

If you are pregnant or nursing ; If you have a medical condition or are in the course of medical treatment ; If you are programmed for theater/operation in the near future, please consult your healthcare practitioner before using this product.

This product cannot replace a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

This product has not been evaluated by the SAHPRA for its quality, safety or intended use.

For More Information please check our General Safety Herbal products Page