Echinacea:

Echinacea is another well known and popular herbal nutritional supplement and it has many health benefits to offer. There are nine recognized species of Echinacea which are found in the United States and Southern Canada. Echinacea purpurea is the most popular species and it is believed to offer the most health benefits.

Some other recognized names for this herb are purple coneflower and American coneflower. The most popular uses for Echinacea is to treat or to help prevent common colds, the flu and infections. It is also effective at helping to make our immune system stronger so you are less susceptible to getting sick. Sometimes Echinacea is also used to help with skin problems such as acne.

Research suggests that this herb has been used by native Americans for nearly 400 years to help with preventing many illnesses and to help maintain good health. The popularity of Echinacea use in the United States has declined after the introduction of antibiotics however this herbal supplement could still be effective and beneficial to your health without the potential side effects that taking antibiotics can give.

Many laboratory studies have been done showing that Echinacea can be effective at enhancing the immune system, helping to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and also provide antioxidant effects. Antioxidants are chemicals that help to fight free radical damage which can cause cancer and premature aging.

The plant has single pink or purple flowers and has a cone in the middle that is purple-brown in color. Out of the nine recognized species, three are considered to be effective for the health – Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea pallida. The primary ingredients that offer health benefits in this plant are polysaccharides, glycoproteins, volatile oils and flavonoids. Chemicals differ based on where they are located on the plant, for instance the root contains different compounds than those found in the leaves or flowers.

Research suggests that it is the above ground section of the plant in particular of the Echinacea purpurea species that has the most health benefits. The above ground sections of the Echinacea purpurea are approved in Germany to treat colds and to help heal infections. Germany unlike the US does regulate herbal supplements. The Echinacea pallida root is also approved in Germany to treat the flu.

Echinacea is available as an extract, tablets, capsules and ointments. It is also added to many other nutritional supplements such as multi-vitamins and whole food supplements like green drinks, just check the ingredients to see if Echinacea is a part of that supplement. Make sure you purchase your Echinacea supplement from quality sources you can trust because many Echinacea products actually do not contain the Echinacea that they claim to contain in their labels so choose wisely. Consider Echinacea as a natural solution to help you get healthier.

Article is provided by the freelance authors of Superhealthy.org and is the sole property of Superhealthy.org.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the advice of a qualified health professional before taking on any health program.

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