I met my husband while we were both walking across the country, and you really get to know someone when you walk more than 15 miles a day together. Back then, he was a sporty 20-something into healthy eating, while I was more about academics and enjoying pizza. After our walk, we went to Europe, where my pizza and PB&J diet caught up with me, and I ended up with a bad cold on the flight. I arrived with an ear infection, cough, and sore throat.
Luckily, my boyfriend had some natural remedies with him and insisted I try an awful-tasting echinacea tincture. Normally, I’d go for antibiotics if I got sick, but being in a foreign country where I couldn’t speak the language, I didn’t have much choice. So, I tried what he offered, and to my surprise, it actually worked, and I recovered quickly.
Although my diet wasn’t always perfect, I became curious about natural remedies. My husband played a big role in sparking my interest in nutrition and exploring natural treatments. Echinacea was one of the first herbs I researched. It’s a simple plant from the daisy family, also known as purple coneflower. Many people grow it without even realizing its potential benefits. The plant gets its name from the Greek word “ekhinos,” meaning hedgehog, because the cone looks like one.
The most common species used for remedies is Echinacea purpurea. There are nine different species, but only this one is considered medicinal. Some species are endangered, so it’s important to identify them correctly before harvesting. The flowers, leaves, and roots are all used in natural remedies, but traditionally, the leaves and flowers are more common.
Echinacea grows mainly in central and eastern US and was used by Native Americans centuries ago. It’s gaining popularity again today. If you live in these areas, you might be able to grow it easily. Research on its effectiveness varies, and there are certain precautions, especially for people with autoimmune diseases. Although I don’t use it much now, many still trust this traditional remedy.
It’s important to consult a doctor before using any herbs, especially if you have health conditions or are pregnant. Some believe echinacea might help cancer patients, but more research is needed. It’s better studied for boosting the immune system, though this can be tricky for those with autoimmune issues. Studies suggest it might reduce the chances of catching a cold and shorten its duration.
Echinacea is believed to help the immune system by encouraging white blood cell production, which can help combat infections. However, this stimulation can be problematic for people with autoimmune diseases. For most people without these conditions, echinacea might ease mild illness symptoms.
WebMD reports that echinacea is commonly used for infections, particularly colds and upper respiratory infections. While it’s not clear if it prevents colds, it might reduce symptoms. It’s also used for various other infections, including the flu, urinary tract infections, and gum disease, among others.
A tincture is basically a concentrated extract. The most common type is made with alcohol, although vinegar or glycerin can also be used. To make an echinacea tincture, alcohol is usually required.
Personally, I only use echinacea when I absolutely have to, especially with my Hashimoto’s. Instead, I often rely on vitamin C and garlic. For autoimmune concerns, it’s vital to use immune-stimulating herbs under medical supervision. Pregnant or nursing women and children should also approach echinacea cautiously, only using it with a doctor’s guidance.
Have you ever tried echinacea? Did it work for you?
