Natural Healers- Echinacea

  If you've always thought a herb is any useful plant, you'd probably be surprised to see echinacea absent from many herb books. However, its properties have been well noted for generations and its efficaciousness supported by research.
  Echinacea is a group of North American Prairie perennials that can grow to a height of 20 inches, and are known for their purple, daisy-like flowers.

  It is a perennial that should be grown in a sunny spot. It needs a rich, sandy soil, in an open site, as the plant is prone to mildew.  Harvesting and drying the roots should be done in autumn.
  It is used extensively to boost the immune system, treat colds and flu, fight infection, help speed up the healing of wounds, and reduce inflammation.
There are two varieties of note- E. angustifolia and E. purpurea, which are not entirely interchangeable, so do your research properly or ask an experienced herbalist, if you're looking at the plant as an alternative medicine.

  Echinacea should be taken as soon as you feel signs of infection coming on; studies show it lessens the  severity of colds and flu. It is thought to stimulate the immune system and localise infection, slowing its spread through the body. It has best results  when used over a 7-10 day period after infection- so don't bother taking it over a longer period, or as a preventative- it won't work.
  It is also used as an antibacterial in skin preparations and helps to heal wounds, septicaemia, boils and carbuncles. Both E.purpurae and E.angustifolia are good for acne and infected nails, speeding recovery and reducing inflammation.
  E.purpurea is used for treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and yeast infections. E.angustifolia is good for ear infections, especially when used with Goldenseal. Purpurae has been used against Lyme disease, where it is thought the plant greatly increases the activity of natural killer cells, and inhibits secondary infections.
  If you are looking at echinacea as an alternative medicine, please get professional advice. Echinacea does have side affects, so don't take it on a whim.  Alternatively, you can just grow it for the flowers- the bees and other flying insects will enjoy the long lasting source of nectar and love you for it.