Herbal Remedy - Echinacea

In order to stay healthy and stop coughing and sneezing, taking echinacea infusions is considered the best defense. Several studies in America and Europe have shown that echinacea can increase the immune system's power. People commonly use echinacea for colds during the colder months. This is because it increases the number of T-cells in the bloodstream.

There are nine distinct plant species in the genus Echinacea.. Only three commercial species are used— above-ground parts and roots of the plant can be used medicinally around the world. It's used as an herbal remedy in the United States for several conditions— one of which is pneumonia. Echinacea purpurea, E. pallida, and E. angustifolia are considered the most powerful of the three cultivated species. E. purpurea is considered the most powerful due to its higher potency than E. pallida and E. angustifolia. It's also cultivated in Britain. Purpurea herb is recommended for increasing the immune system's power. It can be purchased as a tea, capsule, or tincture to help fight and cure infections of the upper respiratory system. Some people even use it as an anti-fungal.

Clinical trials performed in the United States have revealed that echinacea herb doesn’t provide any benefits for the common cold. In fact, some US studies indicate that the herb can make symptoms worse. Other clinical trials were conducted in Europe. These studies found that echinacea minimized the severity of the cold. However, they used a blend of both E.purpurea and E.angustifilio — not just one or the other. A study of echinacea was performed in 2006. The results of this study showed that taking echinacea has a 55% greater chance of giving someone a cold than someone who takes a placebo. Additionally, there were more positive than negative trials. This could indicate that the results of this study may depend on the type of echinacea herb used. There are more positive results than negative results associated with this herb. The negative results of clinical trials held on an herbal product are considered by some to be definitive proof that it's ineffective when used to treat colds. This misconception is unfortunate, as negative trials are the predominant result in many cases.

Buying supplements or teas from certain echinacea companies can result in inconsistent quality. Better options can be found from reputable and established suppliers. When you’re feeling a cold coming on, take some immediately. In fact, some brands guarantee potency, so buy from them whenever possible. Some precautions to take when purchasing certain brands are listed. People with autoimmune diseases, liver disease, or tuberculosis shouldn't take echinacea. Some people have also developed allergic reactions to the herb; these reactions cause skin irritation or hives. Despite these issues, echinacea is considered a low-risk herb.

How to use echinacea for treatment:

It is most commonly given as a pill or liquid tincture. When blended into tea, it is not palatable. Diluting herb powder and mixing it with liquid can make it more effective. This can be achieved by adding tinctures or teas to the mix. If you have a cold, sinus infection, or flu, it is recommended that you take a higher dose more often.

You may take 1 to 2 capsules every 3 hours on the first day for infection or acute cough. Alternatively, you can take 1 to 6 capsules every 3 hours for the first day of flu. Afterward, you can reduce the dose to 6 to 2 capsules every 3 hours for the first day.

It is recommended to take two capsules or half a teaspoon of tincture 3 times a day for about three weeks for persistent infections. Afterward, patients are advised not to take any other medications for a week.

Side effects of a drug or other treatment are any undesirable changes in the body:

Echinacea has a low risk of causing allergic reactions in most people. However, some people may experience allergic reactions when taking the herb. These reactions are especially likely for individuals with hay fever or list pollen allergies. Taking this alternative medicine may cause throat irritation and itchy eyes. Consult a doctor before trying this as an alternative treatment.