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Echinacea
Drug Uses
Echinacea is popular as an immune stimulant to boost the immune system and help ward off many winter ailments.
How Taken
Taken 3 times daily at the onset of cold or flu symptoms. It works wonders in combination with Goldenseal and Zinc, particularly at the onset of symptoms.
Drug Class and Mechanism
As a broad-spectrum immune system stimulant Echinacea is most used to protect against, & to treat, common colds, flu, & sore throat. A natural antibiotic, echinacea is used to treat infections, to combat low resistance to sickness & to enhance the immune system. Echinacea has also used in the treatment of chronic recurring vaginal yeast infections. Echinacea purpurea, called King of the blood purifiers in some herbal manuscripts, has been traditionally used to help acne, boils and difficult skin conditions.
The ability of Echinacea to stimulate the immune system is extremely well documented. The primary constituent responsible for its activity are large sugar molecules called polysaccharides. Two in particular have been identified as beneficial: inulin and arabinogalactin. These polysaccharides activate the immune system in many ways. Echinacea has been shown to increase production of T cells, increase levels of circulating neutrophils, improve leukocyte phagocytosis, assist antibody binding and natural killer cell activity. Echinacea also has direct antibacterial properties. In general, Echinacea has been thoroughly demonstrated to reduce the duration and severity of common cold and flu symptoms. Echinacea is a herb that deserves its place in our medicine cabinet.
Missed Dose
: If you miss a dose of Echinacea, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Storage
Store Echinacea at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Echinacea out of the reach of children and away from pets.
