Echinacea, also known as purple coneflower, is a traditional Native American herb used for over 400 years in folk wellness traditions. A popular addition to many herbal supplement regimens, echinacea:
- Has been traditionally used to support immune wellness.**
- Contains the aerial parts of the plant.
- Is often paired with goldenseal root for enhanced immune support.**
What is Echinacea?
Also known as purple coneflower, echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) is an herbal perennial native to eastern North America. Solitary ray-shaped purple flowers sprout from a rhizome system, sometimes reaching a height as tall as 5 feet. The flowers are notably conical in shape, the seed head forming a spiky top that resembles a curled up hedgehog, which is where echinacea earns its name; “echinos” is Greek for hedgehog!
Echinacea thrives in open woods, prairies, and barrens, and is a popular garden plant thanks to its ornamental flowers, which famously attract butterflies. Native Americans utilized echinacea in their folk traditions for over 400 years, using the aerial parts as well as the roots for a variety of wellness applications. The plant would be used topically and in tonics and teas to support throat comfort, immune function, and overall wellness.**
Echinacea Products
The fresh aerial parts of echinacea are harvested at flowering to be used in herbal supplements. It naturally contains polysaccharides, flavonoids, and glycoproteins, as well as contributes to antioxidant activity.** Echinacea is particularly popular during seasonal changes and helps to support immune system wellness.**
Piping Rock’s Echinacea supplements are available on their own in quick release capsules and are also available paired with goldenseal root, another immune supportive herb.** Echinacea supplements can also be found in liquid extracts, which typically have a bittersweet taste and can be easier to take for those who have trouble swallowing pills.
Directions for Use
Always consult with your trusted healthcare provider prior to adding any supplement to your regimen. There is no set recommended daily allowance for echinacea supplements. Refer to individual label directions for more information. Echinacea supplements should be taken in increments and for no more than 10 to 14 days at a time; it is not intended for prolonged use.
