Have you ever noticed that when cold and flu season is upon us that several people start taking echinacea for preventive medicine? Do you ever wonder if it really works? Well here are the facts about echinacea. Echinacea is a wild flower native to North America. Native Americans used echinacea for a variety of conditions, including snake bites, spider bites, and bee stings as well as for external wounds. Physicians in the United States started using echinacea in their practices around 1887. They were excited because of its affect on a wide range of illnesses from the common cold to syphilis.
Benefits of Echinacea
- It is believed to support the immune system by activating the white blood cells.
- Aids in healing vaginal yeast infections.
- Helps the body's response to the common cold.
- Helps prevent the flu if used at the onset of conditions.
How should you take echinacea?
If you decide to take echinacea, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor or other health care provider.
When this herb is being used for symptoms of the common cold, it should be started as soon as you notice that you are getting sick. Three weeks of treatment with echinacea, followed by one week without echinacea is recommended for the best results.
If you take the pill form of echinacea you need to be sure to take it with a full glass of water. If you are using the liquid forms use the dropper provided or a dose-measuring spoon or cap. Some forms of echinacea can be brewed to form a tea for drinking.
If you use a topical form of echinacea be sure to only use it externally. Be sure to store your echinacea as the package instructs. The most important thing that you need to know is that echinacea should be protected from light.
Possible side effects
Although it is very rare, there have been a few reports of an allergic reaction to echinacea. If you experience difficulty breathing, closing of your throat, swelling of your lips, tongue, or face, or hives while taking echinacea you should stop taking the herb and seek emergency medical treatment.
Other less serious side effects may include a fever or nausea or vomiting. Other side effects may also occur, talk to your doctor if you are experiencing an unusual or bothersome side effect while take this herb.
Drugs that may interact with Echinacea
- Cyclosporine
- Tacrolimus
- Azathioprine
- Methotrexate
- Other immune system suppressants
- Celestone
- Hexadol
- Decadron
- Cortone
- Fortec
- Hydrocortone
There are a multitude of drugs that interact with echinacea so if you choose to start taking this herb, be sure to check with your physician if you are taking other medicines. If you want to learn more facts about echinacea, please check with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Source: www.articletrader.com
