A lot of people take the natural remedy echinacea at the first sign of a cold. What most people don’t know: This member of the sunflower family, which is widely known in the US and Europe as an effective immune booster, can do much more than help you fight the common cold. Expect to be surprised by all that echinacea can do…
ECHINACEA’S POWERS
Echinacea is especially powerful because it works with the body’s own defense system. It contains compounds that enhance immune function by increasing the number and activity of immune cells…encourages white blood cells to attack invading organisms…and increases the amount of natural immune chemicals (such as interferon and interleukin) in your blood. Beyond the common cold, echinacea also can fight…
- Any type of infection. Oral echinacea fights viral and bacterial infections as well as fungal infections, such as vaginal yeast infections.
- Skin problems. Topical echinacea can help speed the healing of wounds and burns and inflammatory skin problems such as eczema.
- Autoimmune conditions. Echinacea can be used topically to relieve the painful swelling of rheumatoid arthritis and the inflammation of psoriasis.
BEST WAYS TO USE ECHINACEA
Contrary to popular belief, echinacea can be safely used for long periods of time. However, it doesn’t help to build immunity. It is best for acute conditions, such as respiratory tract infections. For long-term immune support, other herbs, such as astragalus, are more effective. Brands to try: Natural Factors Echinamide Clinical Strength (www.NaturalFactors.com) or A. Vogel Echinaforce (www.BioForceUSA.com). Echinacea also is available as a tincture or an ointment. Follow label directions.
Source: Mark A. Stengler, NMD, is a naturopathic medical doctor and leading authority on the practice of alternative and integrated medicine. Dr. Stengler is author of the Health Revelations newsletter, author of The Natural Physician’s Healing Therapies (Bottom Line Books), founder and medical director of the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine in Encinitas, California, and adjunct associate clinical professor at the National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, Oregon. http://MarkStengler.com
Publication: Bottom Line Natural Healing
Original publication date: February 1, 2011
http://www.bottomlinepublications.com/content/article/health-a-healing/echinaceanot-just-for-colds
