Certified Organic Echinacea

Echinacea is used to stimulate the immune system as well as to treat upper respiratory tract infections and lower urinary tract infections. it is also used topically to treat conduct healing for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and other skin maladies. It has long been used as a remedy for cold, flu, and respiratory infections by herbalists, the early American Indians, and physicians going back to the 1800's.first century. It is commonly used throughout Europe and is prescribed by physicians in Germany. Echinacea is most effective when taken intensively for short periods of time in direct response to cold or infections symptoms. Long term use is thought to reduce its effectiveness. . How It Works It is thought to work by stimulating the immune system to provide increased white blood cells and spleen cells to fight invading particles and organisms. This can result in a rise in body temperature. Phenolic compounds within the plant are thought to be responsible for its effectiveness. When Should I Take Echinacea? It is recommended that Echinacea be taken from the onset of viral symptoms until 48 hours after the symptoms disappear. It is not recommended that it be taken as a preventative measure. When you are well and free of infections, taking echinacea can over stimulate the immune system. Over stimulating the immune system can lead to an overall weak immune system and actually increase your chances of getting sick. Do not take echinacea for longer than a month. This results in immune system suppression, which leads to greater risk of illness. It is therefore recommended not to take echinacea for more than a month. Who should not take it! Some individuals may be allergic to echinacea. If you are allergic to members of the daisy family do not take this herb as there is a great chance that you will have an allergic reaction. Also, if you have a history of asthma do not take this herb. Echinacea should not be taken by people with auto-immune diseases, including lupus, multiple sclerosis and collagen disorders. The reason is that an increased immune response can worsen symptoms of the disease. Also, individuals with tuberculosis or who are HIV-positive should also not take this herb because their decreased immune capabilities may be more rapidly depleted with over stimulation. Additionally, persons on immunosuppressive drugs like corticosteroids or cyclosporin, are cautioned against the use of echinacea. Corticosteroids and cyclosporin are drugs commonly used after organ transplants and with lupus. Using echinacea with immunosuppressive drugs counters their effect, possibly resulting in severe illness. Lastly, Long-term use of echinacea has been associated with toxicity to the liver. Hence, it should never be taken with other drugs that are also toxic to the liver, such as anabolic steroids, amiodarone, methotrexate or ketoconazole. This area of drug-herb reaction is not completely understood; therefore, the best approaches are to avoid habitual use of echinacea and to discuss its use thoroughly with one's physician.