Echinacea

Echinacea is commonly known as coneflower which is plant native to North America. There are several species, echinacea augustifolia, echinacea pallida and echinacea pupurea. Herbal practitioners use both the root and ariel parts in the manufacture of remedies.

This herb has been extensively studied for it's effects on the immune system through support of the white blood cell function, including T-Lymphocytes and macrophages. Echinacea an influence on the immune system through supporting healthy white blood cell activity.

This product is often used at the onset of winter illness and is it is thought that it may support the production of interferon through macrophage stimulation, which has an effect on the body's healthy response to infection, and it also has an antiseptic effect.

There has been discussion on the prolonged use of echinacea due to it's potential immunosuppressive effect with prolonged use and it is recommended that echinacea is only used for defined periods.