(Echinacea angustifolia; 250 mg/ml)

• used to combat colds, flu and infections and for the relief of sore throats related to colds.
• acts as a supportive therapy in the management of upper respiratory and urinary infections

Echinacea angustifolia was the primary species valued medicinally by Native Americans. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Eclectic physicians relied on E. angustifolia for its antiseptic powers to treat serious infections like sepsis and typhoid. Specifically, echinacea has proven effective in elevating white blood cell counts and has demonstrable antibacterial, antiviral, and antitumor qualities. Because it is antiviral, echinacea significantly reduces cold and flu symptoms, allowing them to be resolved more quickly. 

Modern use and clinical trials continue to prove its traditional benefits and efficacy. A 2007 meta-analysis that examined many clinical trials over several years concluded that echinacea indeed reduces the likelihood of developing a cold by 58%.  The duration of colds was furthermore reduced by 1.4 days in echinacea users. Herbalists agree that echinacea decreases the severity of cold symptoms such as cough, headache, fever and nasal congestion. 

Recent research has confirmed that alkylamides found exclusively in E. angustifolia are the immunologically active constituents. These are absorbed and not immediately metabolised and eliminated from the system.  In addition to immune and anti-infective properties, Eclectic physicians class echinacea as an alterative . Herbalist Michael Tierra calls echinacea “the best herb for blood and lymph purification” , while Christopher Hobbs explains that echinacea “activates phagocytes to help clean wastes from the lymph”.   

Pharmacokinetic studies have mistakenly suggested no more than 10 days of continuous use based on misleading comments in a 1989 study that used an injectable form.  

Many references contraindicate use of echinacea in autoimmune and progressive systematic disease. Herbal authorities Berris Burgoyne and Kerry Bone explain that “from a rational perspective… Echinacea is positively indicated in a number of autoimmune diseases and is without adverse effects. While more research is needed to understand the role of Echinacea across a wider variety of autoimmune diseases, the theoretical concern expressed by some authorities in the 20th century that Echinacea was contraindicated for this class of disorder is looking to be exactly that: theoretical only”. 

Administration: 45 - 120 drops (1.5 - 4 ml) 3X daily in a little water on an empty stomach.

Contraindications and Cautions: 
Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you have an autoimmune disorder, a progressive systemic disease or if you are taking immunosuppressants. Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have an allergy to the Asteraceae (daisy) family.