All herbs belong to certain categories. Echinacea is a well known herb for the immunity, but it actually belongs to a group of herbs classed as “alteratives”. In herbal medicine they are known as blood and lymph cleansers. Dr John Christopher- great teacher of my teacher- said:
“The true alterative is an agent which slowly but surely cleanses and purifies the blood stream and, at the same time, slowly tones up the organ or organs which may not be able to secrete impurities from the blood”.
How does echinacea work?
Echinacea activates the constituents of the immune system, which enhances phagocytosis (engulfing and breaking down the foreign materials) and appears to have a mild antibiotic effect. It is antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral. It also has anti-allergenic action.
What is echinacea used for?
Apart from the bacterial and viral infections, Echinacea has many other indications. Helpful in cases of sepsis, cystitis, boils, tonsillitis, catarrh and gingivitis. Can be used for the overgrowth of unfriendly gut bacteria; helpful in arthritis, gout, and inflammatory pelvic conditions. It can be helpful in allergic skin conditions such as eczema and urticaria. As a lymphatic alterative it finds its way to formulations to treat chronic fatigue syndrome, hay fever, asthma and acne.
As an immune stimulant should be taken in high doses for short periods of time in acute conditions. I recommend a dose of 5ml of 1:1 tincture 3-4 times a day. Taking Echinacea in drops as recommended on some tinctures available in health stores, will not do much… Part of the plant used is also important. Traditionally we use the root of Echinacea, and the tincture should leave a specific tingle on your tongue.
Echinacea can also be use for protection for people who are at risk around the infections times. I alternate it with Astragalus, one week each- 20 drops daily.
Can Echinacea be used in autoimmune disease?
Famous Australian herbalist and researcher Kerry Bone is one of the experts in Echinacea, and he actively promotes this herb in autoimmunity. He writes extensively about this subject and states that there is very little evidence to suggest any harm.
As always, if you are not sure, please work with trained herbalist.