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ECHINACEA |
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Also known as: |
Echinacea purpurea, Purple Coneflower. |
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Uses: |
Immune stimulant, Colds, Flu, Healing of wounds and
other infections. |
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Description: |
The Echinacea herb is one of the most popular herbs in
Europe. It is considered to be the prime remedy
for the Immune system and this view has been supported
by extensive research. The American Indians were
the first to recognise the value of the plant, using it
for wound healing and snakebites.
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How it works: |
Echinacea works principally by stimulating a group of
cells in the Immune system known as the macrosphages.
These cells have a unique ability to 'eat' matter
foreign to the body, such as viruses, bacteria and other
particulate matter such as dust particles entering the
body as a result of air pollution.
Stimulating the Immune
system in this way improves the way that the body
handles infections, when viruses and bacteria do
manages to invade the body. Whilst there are two
another species of Echinacea which may be found in
use, tests have shown that Echinacea purpurea has the
greatest activity.
Clinical tests have
shown that Echinacea can improve the symptoms of colds
and flu, shortening the course of the illness in 78%
of people.
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When to avoid: |
No restrictions on use are known. |
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