Organic Echinacea Purpurea Herb (Echinacea purpurea)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Echinacea Purpurea Herb (Echinacea purpurea)

Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Echinacea purpurea
• Common Names: Purple coneflower, Eastern purple coneflower
• Family: Asteraceae
• Origin: Native to North America, particularly in the central and eastern regions of the United States.
• Plant Description: Echinacea purpurea is a perennial plant that can grow up to 4 feet tall. It features large, daisy-like flowers with pink to purple petals and a prominent, spiky central cone that is typically orange-brown.

Habitat

Echinacea thrives in prairies, open woodlands, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

History and Folklore

Echinacea has a long history of use among Native American tribes, who used it to treat various ailments, including snake bites, infections, and wounds. It became popular in Western herbal medicine in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly for its immune-boosting properties.

Parts Used

• Roots
• Aerial parts (leaves, flowers, and stems)

Growing and Harvesting

• Growing Zones: USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9.
• Propagation: Echinacea can be grown from seeds or divided roots. It should be planted in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight.
• Harvesting: Roots are typically harvested in the fall after the plant has gone to seed. Aerial parts can be harvested during the growing season.

Constituents

• Alkamides
• Glycoproteins
• Polysaccharides
• Cichoric acid
• Echinacoside
• Flavonoids

Energetics and Taste

• Energetics: Cooling, drying
• Taste: Bitter, pungent

Medicinal Actions

• Immunomodulatory: Supports and modulates the immune system.
• Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation.
• Antimicrobial: Effective against certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
• Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative damage.
• Lymphatic: Supports the lymphatic system and helps reduce swelling.

System Affinities

• Immune system
• Respiratory system
• Lymphatic system

Primary Uses

• Immune Support: Commonly used to prevent and treat colds, flu, and other upper respiratory infections.
• Wound Healing: Applied topically for minor wounds and skin infections.
• Anti-Inflammatory: Used to reduce inflammation in conditions like sore throat and arthritis.

Cautions

• Allergic Reactions: Those allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (like ragweed) may also be allergic to Echinacea.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Use with caution in individuals with autoimmune disorders, as Echinacea stimulates the immune system.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare provider before use.

Research and Studies

• A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that Echinacea purpurea can reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms .
• Another study in Phytomedicine indicated its effectiveness in enhancing immune response .
• Research in Planta Medica also highlighted its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.