What are the potential health benefits of echinacea tea. What are the possible side effects and precautions to consider. How does echinacea tea affect the immune system. What is the recommended dosage for echinacea tea. Are there any drug interactions with echinacea tea.

The Origins and Varieties of Echinacea

Echinacea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants native to North America. There are nine known species of echinacea, all of which were traditionally used by Native Americans of the Great Plains region for medicinal purposes. The three most commonly used species in modern herbal supplements and teas are:

• Echinacea purpurea
• Echinacea angustifolia
• Echinacea pallida

These plants have gained popularity in recent years due to their potential health benefits, particularly in supporting immune function. Echinacea is available in various forms, including teas, tinctures, capsules, and topical preparations.

The Potential Health Benefits of Echinacea Tea

Echinacea tea has been promoted for its potential health benefits, primarily centered around its effects on the immune system. While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that echinacea may offer certain advantages:

Common Cold Prevention and Treatment

One of the most widely studied applications of echinacea is its potential to prevent or reduce the severity of the common cold. Some research indicates that taking echinacea might slightly reduce the chances of catching a cold. However, it’s important to note that evidence regarding its ability to shorten the duration of a cold is inconclusive.

Immune System Support

Echinacea is believed to stimulate the immune system, potentially enhancing its ability to fight off infections. Recent research sponsored by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) suggests that the effect of echinacea on immune cells may be influenced by the types and amounts of bacteria present within the echinacea plants themselves. The composition of the soil in which the plants are grown can affect this bacterial community, potentially impacting the herb’s efficacy.

Topical Applications

Some echinacea preparations are promoted for topical use on wounds and skin problems. While this application is less studied than its internal use, it reflects the traditional uses of the plant by Native American populations.

Understanding the Side Effects of Echinacea Tea

While echinacea tea is generally considered safe for short-term use in most adults, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects:

Digestive Issues

The most common side effects associated with echinacea consumption are related to the digestive tract. These may include:

• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Mild gastrointestinal discomfort

Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to echinacea, which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:

• Rashes
• Itching
• Swelling
• Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)

It’s worth noting that in a clinical trial involving children, some participants developed rashes that may have been caused by an allergic reaction to echinacea.

Long-term Use Concerns

While short-term use of echinacea is generally considered safe, the safety of long-term use remains uncertain. More research is needed to determine the potential effects of prolonged echinacea consumption.

Precautions and Contraindications for Echinacea Tea

When considering the use of echinacea tea, it’s important to be aware of certain precautions and potential contraindications:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The safety of using echinacea during pregnancy or while breastfeeding remains uncertain. Although some preliminary research has been conducted, more studies are needed to establish its safety profile for expectant or nursing mothers. It’s advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding women to consult with their healthcare provider before using echinacea products.

Autoimmune Disorders

Given echinacea’s potential effects on the immune system, individuals with autoimmune disorders should exercise caution. The herb’s immune-stimulating properties could theoretically exacerbate symptoms of conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended in these cases.

Allergies to Plants in the Daisy Family

Echinacea belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae). Individuals with known allergies to other plants in this family, such as ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or daisies, may be at higher risk of experiencing an allergic reaction to echinacea.

Interactions Between Echinacea Tea and Medications

While current evidence suggests that the risk of interactions between echinacea supplements and most medications is low, it’s important to consider potential interactions, particularly with certain types of drugs:

Immunosuppressants

Echinacea’s immune-stimulating effects could potentially interfere with the action of immunosuppressant drugs used in conditions such as organ transplants or autoimmune disorders. These may include medications like:

• Cyclosporine
• Tacrolimus
• Prednisone

Cytochrome P450 Substrates

Some research suggests that echinacea may affect the activity of certain enzymes in the liver, particularly those in the cytochrome P450 family. This could potentially alter the metabolism of drugs that are processed by these enzymes, including:

• Some antidepressants
• Certain heart medications
• Some anti-anxiety drugs

However, more research is needed to fully understand the clinical significance of these potential interactions.

Recommended Dosage and Preparation of Echinacea Tea

Determining the optimal dosage of echinacea tea can be challenging due to variations in product formulations and the lack of standardized recommendations. However, some general guidelines can be considered:

Tea Preparation

To prepare echinacea tea:

1. Use 1-2 grams of dried echinacea root or herb per cup of hot water.
2. Steep for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain and consume up to three times daily.

Duration of Use

For general immune support or at the onset of cold symptoms, echinacea tea is often consumed for 7-10 days. However, it’s important to note that the safety of long-term use has not been well-established.

Individualized Approach

Due to variations in individual responses and the lack of standardized dosing guidelines, it’s advisable to start with lower doses and gradually increase as tolerated. Consulting with a healthcare provider or a qualified herbalist can help determine the most appropriate dosage based on individual health status and goals.

The Science Behind Echinacea’s Effects on the Immune System

Understanding how echinacea interacts with the immune system is crucial for appreciating its potential benefits and limitations. Research into the mechanisms of action of echinacea has revealed several interesting findings:

Alkylamides and Polysaccharides

Echinacea contains bioactive compounds, including alkylamides and polysaccharides, which are believed to be responsible for its immunomodulatory effects. These compounds may:

• Stimulate the production of white blood cells
• Enhance the activity of natural killer cells
• Increase the production of certain cytokines (signaling molecules of the immune system)

Microbiome Influence

Recent research has shed light on the potential role of the plant’s microbiome in its immune-enhancing properties. The bacteria present within echinacea plants may contribute to its overall effects on the immune system. This finding highlights the complexity of herbal medicines and the importance of considering the entire plant ecosystem when studying their effects.

Modulation vs. Stimulation

While echinacea is often described as an immune stimulant, some researchers suggest that its effects may be more accurately described as immunomodulatory. This means that rather than simply boosting immune function, echinacea may help regulate and balance the immune response, potentially explaining its varied effects in different individuals and conditions.

Quality Control and Choosing Echinacea Products

When selecting echinacea tea or other echinacea products, quality control is an important consideration. The efficacy and safety of herbal supplements can vary widely depending on factors such as plant species, growing conditions, and manufacturing processes.

Standardization

Look for products that are standardized to contain specific amounts of key active compounds, such as echinacoside or cichoric acid. Standardization can help ensure consistency in product quality and potency.

Third-Party Testing

Choose products that have been tested by independent third-party organizations for purity and potency. Look for seals from organizations such as USP (United States Pharmacopeia) or NSF International.

Species Identification

Ensure that the product clearly identifies which species of echinacea is used (e.g., Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia). Different species may have varying levels of active compounds and potentially different effects.

Organic Certification

Given the potential influence of soil composition on echinacea’s properties, choosing organic products may help ensure that the plants were grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers that could alter their chemical composition.

By considering these factors, consumers can make more informed choices when selecting echinacea products, potentially maximizing benefits while minimizing risks.

Echinacea | NCCIH

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Common Names: echinacea, purple coneflower, coneflower, American coneflower

Latin Names: Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida

Background

• There are nine known species of echinacea, all of which are native to North America. They were used by Native Americans of the Great Plains region as traditional medicines.
• Echinacea is promoted as a dietary supplement for the common cold and other infections, based on the idea that it might stimulate the immune system to more effectively fight infection. Echinacea preparations have been promoted for topical use (application to the skin) for wounds and skin problems.
• Several species of echinacea, most commonly Echinacea purpurea or Echinacea angustifolia, may be included in dietary supplements.

How Much Do We Know?

• Many studies have been done on echinacea for the common cold and other upper respiratory tract infections. Much less research has been done on the use of echinacea for other health purposes.

What Have We Learned?

• Taking echinacea might slightly reduce your chances of catching a cold. Echinacea has not been shown to shorten the length of a cold.
• There isn’t enough evidence to show whether echinacea is helpful for other health conditions.
• Recent NCCIH-sponsored research suggests that the effect of echinacea on immune cells may depend on the types and amounts of bacteria within the echinacea plants and that the composition of the soil in which the plants are grown can affect this bacterial community. However, these findings come from laboratory studies of isolated cells, not studies in people.

What Do We Know About Safety?

• For most adults, short-term oral (by mouth) use of echinacea is probably safe; the safety of long-term use is uncertain.
• Although some preliminary research has been done on the use of echinacea during pregnancy, the safety of using echinacea during pregnancy or while breastfeeding remains uncertain.
• The most common side effects of echinacea are digestive tract symptoms, such as nausea or stomach pain.
• Some people have allergic reactions to echinacea, which may be severe. Some children participating in a clinical trial of echinacea developed rashes, which may have been caused by an allergic reaction.
• Current evidence indicates that the risk of interactions between echinacea supplements and most medications is low.

Keep in Mind

• Take charge of your health—talk with your health care providers about any complementary health approaches you use. Together, you can make shared, well-informed decisions.

NCCIH Clearinghouse

The NCCIH Clearinghouse provides information on NCCIH and complementary and integrative health approaches, including publications and searches of Federal databases of scientific and medical literature. The Clearinghouse does not provide medical advice, treatment recommendations, or referrals to practitioners.

Toll-free in the U.S.: 1-888-644-6226

Telecommunications relay service (TRS): 7-1-1

Website: https://www.nccih.nih.gov

Email: [email protected] (link sends email)

PubMed®

A service of the National Library of Medicine, PubMed® contains publication information and (in most cases) brief summaries of articles from scientific and medical journals. For guidance from NCCIH on using PubMed, see How To Find Information About Complementary Health Approaches on PubMed.

Website: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), National Institutes of Health (NIH)

ODS seeks to strengthen knowledge and understanding of dietary supplements by evaluating scientific information, supporting research, sharing research results, and educating the public. Its resources include publications (such as Dietary Supplements: What You Need To Know) and fact sheets on a variety of specific supplement ingredients and products (such as vitamin D and multivitamin/mineral supplements).

Website: https://ods.od.nih.gov

Email: [email protected] (link sends email)

Key References

• Barrett B, Brown R, Rakel D, et al. Echinacea for treating the common cold: a randomized trial. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2010;153(12):769-777.
• David S, Cunningham R. Echinacea for the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2019;44:18-26.
• Echinacea. Natural Medicines website. Accessed at naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com on October 10, 2019. [Database subscription].
• Gurley BJ, Fifer EK, Gardner Z. Pharmacokinetic herb-drug interactions (part 2): drug interactions involving popular botanical dietary supplements and their clinical relevance. Planta Medica. 2012;78(13):1490-1514.
• Haron MH, Tyler HL, Chandra S, et al. Plant microbiome-dependent immune enhancing action of Echinacea purpurea is enhanced by soil organic matter content. Scientific Reports. 2019;9(1):136.
• Haron MH, Tyler HL, Pugh ND, et al. Activities and prevalence of proteobacteria members colonizing Echinacea purpurea fully account for macrophage activation exhibited by extracts of this botanical. Planta Medica. 2016;82(14):1258-1265.
• Taylor JA, Weber W, Standish L, et al. Efficacy and safety of echinacea in treating upper respiratory tract infections in children: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2003;290(21):2824-2830.

This publication is not copyrighted and is in the public domain. Duplication is encouraged.

NCCIH has provided this material for your information. It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider(s). We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with your health care provider. The mention of any product, service, or therapy is not an endorsement by NCCIH.

Last Updated: July 2020

Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Echinacea (E. angustifolia, E. purpurea, E. pallida.) are plants related to sunflowers and ragweed. The leaf, flower, and root are used as medicine.

Echinacea species are native to areas east of the Rocky Mountains in the United States. Echinacea seems to activate chemicals in the body that decrease inflammation. It might also increase the body’s immune system.

Echinacea is most commonly used for the common cold and other infections, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses. There is also no good evidence to support using echinacea for COVID-19.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Possibly Effective for

• Common cold. Taking echinacea by mouth while still healthy might help prevent some colds in adults, but the benefit is probably small. Taking echinacea after catching a cold doesn’t seem to improve symptoms. It isn’t clear if echinacea is helpful in children.

There is interest in using echinacea for a number of other purposes, but there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Echinacea is likely safe for most people in the short-term. Various echinacea products have been used safely for up to 10 days. Some products, such as Echinaforce (A. Vogel Bioforce AG), have been used safely for up to 6 months.

The most common side effects are stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, vomiting, and rash. Allergic reactions might occur in some people, especially in people who are allergic to ragweed, mums, marigolds, or daisies.

When applied to the skin: Echinacea is possibly safe when used short-term. A cream (Linola Plus Cream) containing echinacea has been used safely for up to 12 weeks. Applying echinacea to the skin might cause redness, itchiness, or a rash.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy: Echinacea is possibly safe when taken by mouth for up to 7 days when pregnant. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if using echinacea for longer than 7 days is safe.

Breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if echinacea is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: Echinacea is possibly safe when taken by mouth or applied to the skin for up to 10 days. Taking echinacea by mouth seems to be safe in most children ages 2-11 years, but rashes due to an allergic reaction can occur. There is some concern that allergic reactions to echinacea could be more severe in some children.

An inherited tendency toward allergies (atopy): People with this condition are more likely to develop an allergic reaction to echinacea. It’s best to avoid exposure to echinacea if you have this condition.

“Auto-immune disorders” such as such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a skin disorder called pemphigus vulgaris, or others: Echinacea might have an effect on the immune system that could make these conditions worse. Don’t take echinacea if you have an auto-immune disorder.

Interactions ?

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

• Echinacea might decrease how quickly the body breaks down caffeine. Taking echinacea along with caffeine might increase levels of caffeine and increase the risk of side effects from caffeine, such as jitteriness, headache, and fast heartbeat.

• Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Echinacea might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

• Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Echinacea might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

• Echinacea can increase the activity of the immune system. Some medications, such as those used after a transplant, decrease the activity of the immune system. Taking echinacea along with these medications might decrease the effects of these medications.

• Echinacea might decrease how quickly the body breaks down etoposide. Taking echinacea along with etoposide might increase the side effects of etoposide.

Minor Interaction

Be watchful with this combination

• Echinacea seems to affect how quickly the body breaks down midazolam. Taking midazolam with echinacea might increase the side effects or decrease the effects of midazolam.

• Warfarin is used to slow blood clotting. Echinacea might increase the breakdown of warfarin and decrease how well warfarin works. This might increase your risk of having a clot. Be sure to have your blood checked regularly. The dose of your warfarin might need to be changed.

• Echinacea might affect how quickly the body breaks down darunavir. Taking echinacea along with darunavir might increase the risk of side effects or decrease the effects of darunavir. But it’s not clear if this is a big concern.

• Echinacea might affect how quickly the body breaks down docetaxel. Taking echinacea along with docetaxel might increase the risk of side effects or decrease the effects of docetaxel. But it’s not clear if this is a big concern.

• Echinacea might affect how quickly the body breaks down etravirine. Taking echinacea along with etravirine might increase the side effects or decrease the effects of etravirine. But it’s not clear if this is a big concern.

• Echinacea might affect how quickly the body breaks down lopinavir / ritonavir. Taking echinacea along with lopinavir / ritonavir might increase the side effects or decrease the effects of lopinavir / ritonavir. But it’s not clear if this is a big concern.

Dosing

Echinacea is available in many different types of products, including supplements, liquids, creams, mouthwashes, and throat sprays. Doses vary widely depending on the type of product used. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. © Therapeutic Research Faculty 2018.

benefits and harms to the body, application features

Published:

November 28, 2022, 16:30

• nur.kz/health/healthy-lifestyle/1748958-ehinacea-polza-i-vred-dla-zdorova/”>

Blooming Echinacea: Pixabay

Echinacea is known as a folk remedy for strengthening the immune system. The plant contains a number of substances that benefit the body and maintain health. What are the benefits of echinacea and how to use it properly, say Dan Brennan and Ryan Raman, MD.

Useful properties of Echinacea

Of the nine types of Echinacea, Echinacea purpurea and angustifolia are used for medicinal purposes. The composition of these species includes organic acids, essential oils, minerals (calcium, magnesium, iron and others), vitamins, antioxidants. Also in the composition there are polysaccharides and glycoproteins, which increase immunity. Although there is no comprehensive scientific evidence for this, most often the plant is used to combat colds and prevent them.

Both the upper parts (flowers) and the roots of the plant are used in tablets, tinctures, extracts and teas. Means are used for colds, inflammations, diseases and skin lesions.

Why is echinacea useful? Health Benefits of Echinacea are listed by Dan Brennan, MD:

1. Prevents colds and flu. Echinacea strengthens the immune system and increases the body’s resistance to bacteria and viruses. The plant promotes the production of white blood cells, which destroy pathogens when they enter the upper respiratory tract.
2. Fights infections. Useful for the treatment of urinary tract infections, infectious otitis, as well as cuts and wounds.
3. Used in the treatment of eczema. Echinacea extract helps relieve inflammation and soothe irritation, creating a protective layer that prevents skin damage.
4. Reduces inflammation. It is effective not only for inflammation of the skin, but also for internal organs.
5. Purifies the body. Removes heavy metals, radionuclides.
6. Normalizes blood sugar levels. Promotes the production of insulin and the processing of carbohydrates.
7. Helps fight anxiety and depression.

Scientific author David Sholto writes that studies have shown that echinacea is effective in preventing colds. However, there is no evidence that the remedy shortens the period of illness and accelerates the course of the disease.

Does Echinacea cause cancer? According to Dr. Ryan Raman, echinacea, on the contrary, reduces the risk of developing cancer. Cancer is a disease in which cells grow uncontrollably. Studies have shown that echinacea extracts can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and even cause them to die. This effect is thought to be due to the immune-boosting properties of echinacea.

Echinacea improves immunity, lowers blood sugar levels, reduces anxiety, inflammation and supports healthy skin. It has anti-cancer properties. However, human studies of these benefits are limited, so read the contraindications and side effects and consult your doctor before using.

Echinacea and its tincture: iStockPhoto

Features of Echinacea

Echinacea products are safe and well tolerated for short-term use. However, Dr. Ryan Raman notes the likelihood of such side effects:

• rash, itching and swelling;
• abdominal pain, indigestion and nausea;
• troubled breathing and sore throat;
• headaches and drowsiness.

Who shouldn’t drink echinacea? As Dan Brennan, MD, writes, don’t drink echinacea:

1. When taking immunosuppressants (drugs to suppress the immune response). This includes people with tuberculosis, leukemia, diabetes, HIV or AIDS, or any other autoimmune disease. This category includes people who have received organ transplants.
2. For asthma, allergies. People with asthma or other allergies are at greater risk. This is especially true for people who are allergic to plants of the daisy family.

Echinacea can also cause liver problems in people who take certain pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), antidepressants, blood thinners, sedatives, and other drugs.

How to drink echinacea for immunity? The dry powdered extract is taken 300-500 mg three times a day as a tea. Tinctures of the liquid extract are drunk 2.5-10 ml 3 times a day. These recommendations are relevant for short-term use of the remedy, however, it is best to follow the instructions that come with the particular remedy, writes Daniel Dresden.

How to take echinacea? Echinacea is widely available in stores and pharmacies in the form of teas, tablets, and tinctures. Although there is no official recommended dose of echinacea extract, most studies have evaluated the effects of doses of 450–4000 mg per day for up to 4 months, advises Dr. Ryan Raman.

Echinacea Tea: Freepik

Echinacea is a popular natural remedy for boosting the immune system and fighting the common cold. It helps fight infection and inflammation, and helps prevent anxiety and depression. To get the maximum benefit from a medicinal plant, follow the instructions on the package.

Attention! The material is for informational purposes only. You should not resort to the methods of treatment described in it without first consulting a doctor.

Sources:

1. Dan Brennan. Health Benefits of Echinacea // WebMD. – 2020. – November 12. – Mode of access: https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-echinacea
2. Ryan Raman. Echinacea: Benefits, Uses, Side Effects and Dosage // Healthline. – 2018. – 25 October. – Access mode: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/echinacea
3. Sholto David, Rebecca Cunningham. Echinacea for the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections // PubMed. – 2019. – March 19. – Access mode: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31126553/

Reviewer – doctor of the highest category Mikhailenko Lyudmila Anatolyevna.

Original article: https://www.nur.kz/health/healthy-lifestyle/1748958-ehinacea-polza-i-vred-dla-zdorova/

Echinacea tea: useful properties, contraindications, recipes

The beneficial properties of Echinacea have been known for a long time. In the people, this herb with narrow purple petals is aptly called “natural antibiotic”. Purple perennial perfectly combines decorative and healing qualities. But, like almost all medicinal cultures, it also has contraindications that must be considered before trying echinacea tea.

Contents

1. Properties of Echinacea
2. Are echinacea decoctions safe for everyone?
3. Echinacea tea recipes

Echinacea properties

In modern herbal medicine, echinacea is used in dozens of herbal preparations designed to treat a variety of diseases. This plant is a balanced source of vitamins and minerals (silicon, calcium, selenium, iron, potassium, magnesium), so it has truly amazing healing properties.

• Echinacea stimulates the immune system. Regular consumption of tea from this herb helps to reduce the incidence of colds and diseases of the respiratory system.
• Due to its rich composition, this perennial is also effective in the fight against viral infections.
• Useful phytoncides contained in echinacea accelerate wound healing, have an anti-inflammatory effect in abscesses, purulent wounds, burns.
• The plant helps to cleanse the lymphatic system and blood, which has a rejuvenating effect on the body. Improves the functioning of the kidneys and liver, increases the level of blood clotting.
• Useful tea or infusion of this herb to improve the condition of hair and nails.

It is worth noting that echinacea decoction is very pleasant in taste, and its smell calms the nerves and helps to quickly cope with stress and overwork. The drink stimulates physical and mental activity, so for students during the sessions, such tea is also a real salvation.

Are echinacea decoctions safe for everyone?

Despite a lot of amazing properties, echinacea has some contraindications.

• In any form, this herb should not be consumed during pregnancy, and during breastfeeding it is better to abstain from the “cough” drink.
• The minimum age at which an echinacea decoction or tincture can be given to a child is 2 years; but even in this case, it is necessary to consult a doctor, and only then brew a strengthening tea for your baby. The tincture of this plant is recommended for children from the age of 12.
• It may seem strange, but some contraindications to the use of this herb are directly related to its main advantage: the ability to increase the protective properties of the body. Echinacea is prohibited in autoimmune diseases.
• In the presence of severe chronic diseases or during an exacerbation, the use of the plant in any form (tea, decoction, tinctures) must be agreed with the attending physician.
• Tuberculosis and lupus erythematosus, sclerosis are also good reasons to stop using echinacea.

We must not forget that echinacea tea can be an allergen for someone. This is quite rare. However, it is better to try a small amount of decoction before the first “tea party” to make sure that there are no unpleasant symptoms.

Echinacea tea recipes

Echinacea is a truly waste-free plant. Useful properties are found in all parts of this perennial herb. In tea or decoction, you can put not only petals, but also stems with leaves, and even roots.

This herb can be poured with boiling water, boiled over an open fire or a steam bath, drunk hot or, conversely, cooled. Her useful qualities do not suffer from this; although for different purposes the method of brewing a healing infusion will vary.

Do not drink echinacea tea for more than 1-2 consecutive weeks; after that you need to take a short break.

For a healthy person, the daily portion ranges from 1 to 2 glasses; and during a cold or other infectious disease, the amount of drink can be increased to 3 glasses per day. The exception is children. For them, the maximum daily dose is 1 glass of weakly brewed drink.

Echinacea decoction to boost immunity

This recipe is especially relevant during the cold season. It requires:

• 1 tablespoon chopped herb;
• and 1 cup boiling water.

Boil the herb in a water bath for 15 minutes, then remove from heat, let it brew for half an hour and strain. Bring the volume up to 200 ml with boiled water. You need to drink such tea before meals, in the morning and in the evening, 50 ml (1/4 cup). After 10 days, you need to take a break in the reception.

Immunomodulatory herbal tea

Echinacea may well be used instead of tea. To do this, 1 tablespoon of dry grass is poured into a glass of hot boiled water and insisted under the lid for 30 minutes. After the infusion is required to filter, squeeze the raw materials and bring the volume of boiled water to 200 ml.

Take warm 1/3 cup 3 times a day or 1/2 cup 2 times a day after meals.

Echinacea honey drink

Honey is known to be another way to help your body resist colds. Why not combine the most useful qualities of these two products for a person?

Make an echinacea tea.