If you’re not using Echinacea, you should be. It has a long history of helping people minimize cold symptoms. It you use it at the first signs of a cold, you can avoid the cold altogether. I have recommended this herb to my clients for several years now with great success.
Echinacea is one of the most widely researched herbs and enjoys a wide range of familiarity. It was first used by Native Americans as a cure for snakebites. Through the years it has been used to increase T-cells in cancer patients undergoing radiation, as a blood cleanser and in many other ways.
If you have tried Echinacea and haven’t found success, it was probably due to the dosage or the delivery form. I have found that tinctures are best. Liquids have a 70 – 80% absorption rate and because a tincture incorporates alcohol, it has a 90% absorption rate. If you prefer using a tincture without alcohol you can buy them made with glycerin. It won’t have as high an absorption rate but it will still be effective. Stay away from capsules and tablets. They are not as effective.
For best results follow these Health Vibe directions:
Delivery: Buy a tincture by Herbpharm or Gaia (available at Whole Foods, Earthwise, Mother’s or the like). Be sure it is pure Echinacea (either E.purpurea or E. augustifolia) and not a blend of herbs. Sometimes companies add Goldenseal. This will not be as effective.
Dosage: Take 2 dropper-fulls in a small amount of room temperature water or at the back of your throat. Follow-up every 2 hours with 1 dropper-full. Do not exceed 6 dropper-fulls in a 24 hour period. Take 1 dropper-full every 2 hours for the next 3 days (remember: do not exceed 6 in a 24 hour period).
Most people do not find success with Echinacea because they do not take enough of it. The directions on the bottle will probably not be adequate. To be sure, use the directions above. Happy health!
Leave a Reply