Nutritional information on the function of Echinacea

For from twenty to twenty five years, Echinacea has been passing through the stages of critical experimentation under the observation of several thousand physicians and its remarkable properties are receiving positive confirmaiton. As yet, but few disparaging statements have been made. All who use it correctly fall quickly into line as enthusiasts in its praise; the experience of this writer is similar to that of the rest, the results in nearly all cases have been satisfactory. The laboratory observations have been extensive but are not yet complete.   Dr. Finly Ellingwood, M.D.

There are many common herbs which are now being studied by scientists that suggest they may be helpful in strenghening the imune system. Because scientists have a better understanding of teh immune system, and what it takes biochemically to aid and support its function. Research has indicated that many of the biochemicals necessary to a proper immune function are found in various herb indicated that many of the biochemicals necessary to a proper immune function are found in various herb and botannical extracts.

As progress is made regardig research of the immune system the list of immune system related conditions increases, among them rhumatism, allergies, psoriasis, lupus, arthritis, aids , MS, chronic infections, and cancer being the most prevalent. Of course herbs do not offer a quick cure, or for that matter a cure at all. The benefits are derived from the nutrients found in the herbs which provide nourishment to the glands regulating the function and detoxificcation of the immune system. In other words herbs encourage the body to put up a better fight.

While some people take immune stimulating herbs at the first onset of a health disorder, it is best to take them as a preventative.

A change in the resistance, which can lower the immune system, can be affected in many ways such as stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, drinking and even some medication.

The therapeutic activity based on the herbal work of Dr. John R. Christopher is that "Echinacea is a very effective alternative and blood-purifier, and it is a powerful and stimulating antiseptic and antiputrifactive agent. t is very valuable for correcting autoinfection, wherein elimination is imperfect and tissues and fluids have altered and developed septic or putrifacctive action with resultant systenal devitalization and weakness. Its stimulating antiseptic and anti-putrifactive action on exxternal surfaces is comforting; and in arresting pus-formation, it elimates the disagreeable odors of foul surface and fetid discharges. It is an excellent healing agent wherever tissue decay is imminenet or taking place, repair power is poor and where there are unhealthy or blood disccharges. Echinacea is a good appetizer and greatly improves digestion and is useful in goitrous conditions. It relieves non-venomous bites and stings, and the Sioux Indians used the freshlyl -scraped root as a successful antidote for snake bites and hydrophobia."

Studies have found Echinacea to be effective against bacterial and many viral infections, both used internally and externally. In a recent study it was found that Echinacea possessed activity similar to interferon and was used to protect cells from viral conditions like cancer sores, herpes, and influenza. Researchers have found Echinacea and its preparations to be effective anti-inflammatory and anti-exudative effect.