One of the most popular herbs in America today is the Native American traditional herb called echinacea. Named for the prickly scales in its large conical seed head, the herb resembles the spines of an angry hedgehog (echinos is Greek for hedgehog).

Appearance

Echinacea, or hedgehog flower as it is called in England, has tall stems and bears single pink or purple flowerheads topped with huge prickly cones of stamens, which are attractive to bees. The large cone is actually a seed head with sharp spines that resemble a stiff comb. Of nine echinacea species, only three are used for therapeutic purposes: Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida and Echinacea purpurea.

History

Results of archeological digs indicate that Native Americans may have used echinacea for more than 400 years to ease the discomfort of infections and wounds and as a general tonic. Although echinacea was popular during the 18th and 19th centuries, its use began to decline in the United States after the introduction of antibiotics. Echinacea preparations became increasingly popular in Germany throughout the 20th century. In fact, most of the scientific research on echinacea has been conducted in Germany and has focused on the immunostimulant properties of the plant.

The use of this herbal supplement is a traditional nutritional use that is not intended to be prescribed for, or to treat any disease, and does not claim to cure any disease, including diseases involving fevers, colds, flu or invading organisms.

Caution: As with any dietary or herbal supplement, you should advise your health care practitioner of the use of this product. If you have ulcers, gallstones or are nursing, pregnant, or considering pregnancy, you should consult your health care provider prior to taking this product.