What is Echinacea Angustifolia?

PrintEmailSave

Main Image: 

Herbs are useful in strengthening the body and treating the diseases. Echinacea Angustifolia is one such herb. It is native to the Eastern North America.Echinacea belongs to the Asteraceae family. Echninacea has many active ingredients such as glycoproteins, polysaccharides, alkamides, flavonoids and volatile oils. The upper part of the plant mostly consists of polysaccharides while the roots of the plant contain higher volume of volatile oils. Recent studies clearly indicated that this herb can be used as a relief to common cold. However, there are contradictions that suggest that Echinacea has no impact on common cold.

How does Echinacea Angustifolia plant look like?

Echinacea reaches a maximum height of about four feet. The plant resembles the spines of an angry hedgehog. The taproots are often spindle-shaped and branched. The leaves and stems are relatively hairy. Purple flowers bloom during the month of July or August. Echinacea Angustifolia plant grows well in well-drained soil. However, the soil must be acidic in nature. It needs bright sunlight and cannot grow in the shade. 

What is the historical importance of Echinacea Angustifolia? 

Echinacea Angustifolia has been used for at least 400 years. Archeological evidences clearly indicate that Native Americans used this herb to cure infections and wounds. This herb was treated as a general "cure-all." During the 18th and 19th centuries, people used echinacea to treat syphilis, scarlet fever, blood poisoning, malaria and diphtheria. Later it was extensively used to produce antibiotics in the United States. The US National Formulary included echinacea from 1916 to 1950. During 20th century, echinacea became extensively popular in Germany.

What are the different species of Echinacea Angustifolia?

There are three species: Echinacea Angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, and Echinacea purpurea. Echinacea Angustifolia is available in various forms like extracts, tinctures, tablets, capsules, and ointments. It is sold in combination with other vitamins, herbal supplements, and immune-boosting minerals.

What are the uses of Echinacea Angustifolia?

Echinacea Angustifolia has been used to treat scarlet fever, syphilis, malaria, diphtheria and blood poisoning. It is also prescribed as a cure to common cold and flu. It is highly effective in reducing symptoms such as sore throat, cough and fever. It contains many vital components that make it an effective herb to boost the immune system and fight infections. Many researchers have suggested that Echinacea helps to relieve You do not have access to view this node, and reduce inflammation. It has strong anti-viral and anti-oxidant properties. Herbalists also recommend Echinacea to treat urinary tract infections, ear infections, athlete’s foot, sinusitis and hay fever or allergic rhinitis.

What is the recommended dosage for Echinacea Angustifolia? 

Adults and children can be offered Echinacea based on their weight; a child should take 1/3 of the amount that an adult would consume. For example: If an adult weighs 120 lbs (60 kgs) and the child weighs 60 lbs (25 - 30 kgs), the dosage for children should be reduced to 1/2. To combat flu, bladder infections or upper respiratory tract infections, Echinacea Angustifolia can be taken 3 times a day generally for 7 - 10 days in the following forms:

• 1 - 2 grams of dried root or herb can be added in the tea
• 2 to 3 ml of Echinacea as a tincture extract
•  A daily dose of 6-9 mL of Echinacea juice can be consumed
• Fresh extract of Echinacea can be taken in minimal quantities maybe 0.75 mL (15 - 23 drops).

What are the side-effects of Echinacea Angustifolia?

Echinacea Angustifolia contains many active substances that may interact with other herbs, supplements or medications. Hence, it is always advisable to consume Echinacea under the supervision of an accredited practitioner. People suffering from tuberculosis, diabetes, leukemia, multiple sclerosis, connective tissue disorders, HIV, AIDS, or liver disorders should not take Echinacea. For this reason, those with transplanted organs or under immuno-suppressant should avoid this herb. In rare cases, Echinacea is known to cause allergic reactions that may range from a mild rash to anaphylaxis (a life threatening reaction accompanied by throat tightening, shortness of breath, and fainting). Those with asthma and allergies may develop negative reactions. Those with allergies to the daisy family (Compositae) should avoid Echinacea. Many individuals develop a very painful skin condition called "erythema nodosum" after taking Echinacea. If consumed orally, Echinacea may cause temporary numbing and tingling on the tongue. Research suggests that there is no associated risk of birth defects when Echinacea is consumed by pregnant women.

Related Videos: 

Related Videos: 

Related Images: