Echinacea Extract

Species Name: Echinacea purpurea

Also Known As: Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, Echinacea, coneflower, American coneflower, Purple coneflower.

What Is Echinacea Extract? Actual Echinacea extract comes from multiple parts of the plant, which each providing a different benefit to the overall extract.

The upper region of the plant provides polysaccharides to the mixture, while the root provides important volatile oils.

The actual herb itself is found in the Midwest of North America.

Home Remedies Using Echinacea Extract:

Benefits and Uses of Echinacea Extract:

Echinacea extracts are known for their immune system benefits, thanks to the combination of both volatile oils and polysaccharides. It is important for all to note that this benefit is generally found within a specific section of the plant itself.

Those who want the strongest immune system benefit should look for Echinacea extracts that come from the upper portion of the plant.

While the root is believed to provide some help with the immune-building properties of the plant, it is not considered strong or mandatory for an effective Echinacea extract.

Echinacea extracts are primarily used to fight off infections. Many use Echinacea in an effort to prevent the common cold and the flu.

Others will use Echinacea extract as a way to reduce the length of the cold or flu after coming down with symptoms.

Any upper-respiratory infection may benefit from the immune-stimulating effects of the herb.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine there are some studies that support this claim.

The actual Echinacea extract should be taken in 2-3 ML dosages. Generally, 3 doses a day for a week is recommended for those looking to use the product as an immune booster.

If you are planning on taking Echinacea, be warned; many have released Echinacea products that do not actually feature the herb. Be sure to check for reputability when purchasing the extract.

Side Effects of Echinacea Extract:

The side effects of Echinacea extracts are few and far between. Some individuals may struggle with gastrointestinal issues because of the herb, and may deal with acid issues.

Those who have asthma may want to avoid Echinacea, as it has been shown to cause some allergic reactions that may lead to breathing issues. These reactions can cause, among other things, rashes and anaphylaxis.

Those who have high blood pressure may also want to avoid the herbal remedy. According to other reports from the Mayo Clinic, the herb can change how these medications operate in the body, causing potential drug interactions and issues.

Anyone allergic to plants in the Daisy family should stay away from Echinacea extract. This includes chrysanthemums, daisies, and ragweed. As with any other type of herb, consult a physician to check for any possible reactions or interactions with any drug you currently take.