None known

Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.
Adaptogen  Alterative  Antiseptic  Depurative  Diaphoretic  Digestive  Sialagogue  Stings  
Urinary

Echinacea is one of the world's most important medicinal herbs. Research shows that it has the ability to raise the body's resistance to bacterial and viral infections by stimulating the immune system[254]. It is also antibiotic and helps to relieve allergies[254]. Plants in this genus were probably the most frequently used of all North American Indian herbal remedies. They had a very wide range of applications and many of these uses have been confirmed by modern science. The plant has a general stimulatory effect on the immune system and is widely used in modern herbal treatments[222]. There has been some doubt over the ability of the body to absorb the medicinally active ingredients orally (intravenous injections being considered the only effective way to administer the plant), but recent research has demonstrated significant absorption from orally administered applications[222]. In Germany over 200 pharmaceutical preparations are made from Echinacea[222]. The roots and the whole plant are considered particularly beneficial in the treatment of sores, wounds, burns etc, possessing cortisone-like and antibacterial activity[222]. The plant was used by North American Indians as a universal application to treat the bites and stings of all types of insects[213]. An infusion of the plant was also used to treat snakebites[213]. The root is adaptogen, alterative, antiseptic, depurative, digestive, sialagogue[4, 21, 61, 165]. It is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[238]. The plant has been used as a diaphoretic[213]. The German Commission E Monographs, a therapeutic guide to herbal medicine, approve Echinacea for common cold, cough and bronchitis, fevers and cold, urinary tract infections, inflammation of the mouth and pharynx, increase resistance to infection, wounds and burns (see [302] for critics of commission E).

Attracts butterflies and beneficial insects including parasitic Wasps. General insect (especially bees) nectar plant. Butterfly nectar plant. Shelter plant for beneficial insects. Wildlife Food – seed-eating birds - a favorite of the American Goldfinch). Pioneer Plant – helps reestablish overused or damaged land. Drought Plant – this species can tolerate prolonged dry conditions once established.

Special Uses

Food Forest