Know Your Herbs: Echinacea

Echinacea plant with spiny spindle top resembling a hedgehog

Medicinal Uses: Echinacea is a genus of different species of plants that is a drought tolerant perrenial plant that can grow up to four and a half feet tall. They are commonly called purple cornflowers because the receptacles are hemispheric to conical in shape. The genus name is from the Greek word echino meaning "spiny" due to its central spiny disc. They are native to eastern and central North America where they are found growing in moist to dry climates.

Today, echinacea is used to treat the common cold, the flu and to reduce symptoms such as cough (pharyngitis) and fever. Many herbalists recommend it as a way to boost the immune system and help fight infection.

Folklore: Archaeological digs indicate that native Americans may have used it for more than 400 years to treat infections, wounds and a general 'cure-all.' During history, echinacea has been used to treat scarlet fever, syphilis, malaria, blood poisoning and diptheria. Usage reached a peak in the 18th and 19th centuries. However with the introduction of antibiotics in the 1930's and 1940's in the US, it has fallen in popularity.

Plains Indian tribes would eat the dried root as an antidote for snakebites, toothaches and joint pains. It has also been used as aromatic in sweat lodges.

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A Warning: Please consult your physician before taking this herb.