Echinacea purpurea: medicinal properties, instructions for use and features. Echinacea: medicinal properties and contraindications, application, photo

Echinacea purpurea is a widely used medicinal plant, the preparations of which are used to increase. Means based on it are used to combat allergies, as well as viral and fungal infections.

Biological characteristic

Echinacea purpurea is a perennial plant native to the eastern part of the North American continent. It belongs to the Compositae (Asteraceae) family.

The height of straight leafy and strongly branching rough stems reaches 1 m. Bright pink or purple reed and tubular Echinacea flowers are collected in large (up to 15 cm) inflorescences-baskets.

Flowering time in our country is from mid-summer to early autumn. Echinacea blooms for the first time in the second year of life.

This plant is cultivated as an ornamental and medicinal; it does not grow well in shady areas and prefers drained fertile soils, although it is quite drought tolerant. Echinacea tolerates low temperatures well, which leads to a wide area of its distribution.

Rhizomes are harvested as medicinal raw materials, as well as aerial parts - stems, leaves and flowers. Drying is recommended in attics with good air circulation.

Active substances

A number of biologically active substances were found in Echinacea purpurea, including organic acids with antifungal activity, polyenes, phytosterols, glycosides, resins, essential oils, tannins, saponins and alkaloids. Due to the high content of phenolic acids, the plant is a powerful natural antiseptic.

The herb contains many bioflavonoids, polyamines, resins and polysaccharides. Rhizomes contain immune-stimulating phenolcarboxylic acids, glucose, inulin, and betaine, which can significantly reduce the risk of strokes and.

Both in the roots and in the aerial parts of Echinacea purpurea, micro and macro elements (iron, molybdenum, calcium, potassium, manganese, selenium, zinc, cobalt, beryllium and aluminum) are present in large quantities.

Useful properties of Echinacea purpurea

Preparations based on Echinacea purpurea are characterized by pronounced anti-allergic, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. They are also used to fight fungal, bacterial and viral infections.

Echinacea accelerates the healing of tissues in ulcerative lesions and wounds. The plant is an effective remedy for skin diseases such as eczema.

Due to the ability to stimulate general immunity, it helps to prevent or alleviate the course of colds and SARS.

The herb extract is a very effective adaptogenic agent.

Important:it has been established that Echinacea contributes to the production of a factor in the body that prevents and slows down growth.

Indications

Preparations from various parts of the medicinal plant are indicated for the treatment and prevention of the following diseases:

intestinal infections;
(outwardly locally);
long non-healing wounds;
trophic ulcers;
polyarthritis;
liver pathology;
diseases of the urinary system (in particular -);
heavy metal poisoning;
neurological disorders;
bites of snakes and insects (externally in the form of lotions).

Important:decoctions of Echinacea have a tonic effect and normalize blood pressure.

Recipes for the use of Echinacea preparations for various diseases

Reception of tincture helps to increase the number of leukocytes and prevents the reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms. During the period of seasonal colds, the drug activates the immune system. Alcohol tincture of Echinacea can also be applied topically, topically to treat skin and wounds to reduce inflammation and accelerate tissue regeneration.

Note:for external use (lotions, compresses and rinses), it is advisable to prepare the preparation at the rate of 40 drops of alcohol tincture (in 70% ethanol) per 100 ml of saline.

Contraindications to the use of Echinacea preparations

Most people tolerate treatment with Echinacea purpurea well. Allergic reactions are extremely rare in patients.

Contraindications to the use of this plant are:

individual hypersensitivity;
multiple sclerosis;
acute angina;
increased nervous excitability;
systemic red;
rheumatoid arthritis;
leukemia.

Important:Do not take drugs for more than a month in a row! Large doses can provoke dyspeptic disorders and sleep disturbances.

Echinacea during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Women who are carrying a baby, as well as nursing mothers, are advised to refrain from taking Echinacea. Data on the safety of the plant is not enough, although it is well established that it does not lead to fetal malformations. The issue of increasing the likelihood of spontaneous abortion (miscarriage) remains controversial.

Some experts are of the opinion that Echinacea during pregnancy is a good alternative to antibiotics and synthetic immunomodulators. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe a herbal preparation for external use for purulent inflammation of the skin.

Pediatricians recommend giving children who have reached the age of 12 a tincture previously diluted with water 1: 3. A single dose for children and adolescents is 3-10 drops (depending on age), and the frequency of administration is 2 times a day. Tincture is an excellent tool to strengthen the immunity of the child. For babies (over 2 years old), it is better to take syrup or tablet forms.

Europeans got acquainted with echinacea in the 17th century. Thanks to its beautiful flowers, it has become an adornment of parks and gardens. After some time, echinacea was recognized as a medicinal plant. However, the medicinal properties and contraindications of echinacea were known long before that. North American shamans were among the first to use this plant to treat burns, pains of various origins, colds, and bites from the most poisonous snakes.

As the composition and properties of echinacea were studied, pharmacists in many countries created preparations, the composition of which increasingly contained this flower. Each study has only confirmed that echinacea is an excellent antiviral and antibacterial agent. It also perfectly stimulates the human immune system.

Echinacea description, photo

Echinacea purpurea is a perennial plant from the Asteraceae family with large purple flowers. It has a special aroma and taste. It is unpretentious in care, it can reach a height of 1.5 m. It has a rough branched stem and the same rough, pointed leaves. The root system is made up of branched short roots. Echinacea starts flowering at the age of two years. Flowers appear in the second half of June, the plant fades in 2.5 months.

Initially, echinacea grew in the arid regions of North America, mainly in its eastern part. Despite the variety of known types of echinacea (white, narrow-leaved, bloody, simulating, Tennessee), purple echinacea is used in pharmacology and as a folk remedy.

Important! All parts of echinacea are medicinal: stems, leaves, flowers and roots.

Chemical composition

Valuable for the human body, the healing properties of Echinacea purpurea are explained by the unique combination of many components. The main components of the plant:

flavonoids;
polysaccharides;
amino acids;
antioxidants;
essential oils.

Echinacea contains vitamins A, C, E, lipids, phenols, tannins. Of the trace elements present: iron, chlorine, aluminum, potassium, calcium, magnesium. In a small amount, the chemical composition of the plant is supplemented by: selenium, cobalt, zinc, manganese, molybdenum.

Such a rich composition determines the beneficial effect of echinacea on the processes of hematopoiesis, on the fight against cancer cells, as well as anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory properties. Due to the high content of polysaccharides, echinacea actively stimulates the production of interferon, thereby increasing the defenses of the human body.

Useful and medicinal properties

Echinacea purpurea is a powerful immunomodulator. Unlike ginseng, which shakes up the immune system, echinacea helps it start working on its own. In this regard, it is recommended as a prophylactic against influenza and colds.
Under the action of preparations based on echinacea, the circulatory and lymphatic systems are cleansed, viruses and bacteria die. In addition, free radicals are removed, as a result, cell aging slows down, and the body as a whole is rejuvenated.

Important! Herb roots are used to treat skin diseases, stop bleeding.

The following most significant medicinal properties of Echinacea purpurea can be distinguished:

Strengthens immunity.
Removes inflammation.
Destroys viruses, fungi, bacteria.
Purifies the body.
Prevents the growth and reproduction of tumor cells.

Echinacea application

Echinacea purpurea is prescribed in medicine for the treatment of many diseases. The list of diseases that can be treated with echinacea is quite capacious. The most common indications for use:

colds (including acute respiratory infections, influenza);
pathology of the respiratory system;
infectious lesions of the urinary organs;
inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract;
skin diseases of various origins (psoriasis, dermatitis, purulent wounds, furunculosis).

Echinacea preparations are used for depressive conditions, insomnia, nervous overwork. They increase concentration and improve memory.

Important! The plant is not addictive. There are no side effects during treatment.

For medical purposes, echinacea is used in forms such as:

Tincture. It treats allergies, gastritis, pancreatitis, diseases of the reproductive and urinary systems, intestinal dysfunction, purulent skin diseases. With inflammation of the respiratory tract, the tincture is rubbed into the skin of the back. With the initial symptoms of a cold, it is added to the water when taking a bath.
Tea. Its main purpose is the prevention of SARS, influenza. In order not to get sick during a flu epidemic, it is recommended to brew the flowers of the plant or its roots, and drink this tea from 1 to 3 glasses a day. You can also drink tea to improve metabolism, to rejuvenate the body.
Decoction. It copes well with headaches, removes excess fluid, thereby eliminating swelling, and normalizes blood pressure. A decoction of echinacea prevents the deterioration of vision, improves appetite. They treat skin rashes, burns, insect bites.
Lotions, baths, compresses. As an external agent, it is prescribed for the treatment of eczema, carbuncles. Compresses are applied to inflamed areas of the skin with hydradenitis. Pain from bruises and wounds can be relieved with echinacea lotions.
Infusion. It normalizes the composition of the blood. Strengthens the defense system, relieves stress, has an invigorating property. Externally used for the treatment of burns, for resorption of scars.
Extract. Perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. Regular use of echinacea extract will help to avoid colds, reduce nervous strain. As an external remedy, it is used to treat bruises and wounds.
Another way to use echinacea is syrup. Its action helps to increase the body's resistance to pathological microorganisms. Often, syrup is prescribed in the initial stages of malignant neoplasms.

Important! P When taking echinacea internally, the prescribed dosage should be strictly observed.

The use of echinacea in clinical nutrition

Echinacea can be used not only in dosage forms. Healing properties do not lose their value while using the plant for food. Contained in all parts of echinacea essential oils, resins, fiber improve metabolic processes. Entering the body with food, the active components of the herb have a favorable local effect on the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood, and compensate for the deficiency of vitamins.

Fresh echinacea leaves are added to salads and soups in summer. In other seasons, it is recommended to use dried leaves, stems and flowers.

Healing properties of echinacea for men

The ability of echinacea to positively influence the sexual sphere is used in the treatment of certain male diseases. Under the influence of plant components, inflammation disappears in a short time, viruses die, fungi stop multiplying.

Important! Men under 50 who want to have children should not use echinacea preparations or reduce the dosage, as the drugs inhibit sperm motility during treatment.

Echinacea purpurea is effective in complex therapy for such problems as: prostatitis, prostate adenoma, genitourinary infections, inflammation of the urinary organs, infertility. Due to the immunomodulating properties, plant materials are successfully used in malignant tumors of the male genitourinary system. The body is freed from pathogenic substances, it begins to more effectively fight foreign cells.

Therapeutic echinacea for women

Medicines with echinacea are widely used to eliminate women's health problems of different ages. Echinacea preparations are effective in the treatment of:

inflammation of the ovaries and cervix;
cystitis;
pyelonephritis.

Positive dynamics is also observed after a course of treatment for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and candidiasis. The trace elements that make up the plant normalize the female hormonal background through a beneficial effect on the thyroid gland and adrenal glands. A healthy hormonal system is the key to a woman's excellent general well-being.

Benefits of Echinacea for Children

Weak children's immunity is not able to fully fight infections and viruses on its own. The herb echinacea can help with this. Known for their positive properties, drugs with echinacea have become one of the most used in the fight against childhood colds, acute respiratory infections, acute respiratory viral infections, and bronchitis.

Important! Echinacea is contraindicated in children under 3 years of age due to an unstable nervous system.

Echinacea is prescribed for children for the prevention of influenza, with frequent diseases of the upper respiratory tract, urinary canals, as well as with the first manifestations of SARS. Stomatitis, otitis media are also treated with echinacea.

For convenient use, various children's forms of preparations are produced (tincture, tablets, lozenges, dry leaves and flowers for brewing). Echinacea tincture contains alcohol, so it is recommended to take it in small doses only for children from 12 years old. A child over 5 years old can be given pills, and younger children can use tea from dried leaves of the plant. For children, both younger and older, baths with the addition of plant extract and aromatherapy can be used.

Regular intake of echinacea by a child will help not only speed up the healing process, prevent complications of diseases, but also avoid them altogether.

Echinacea for the treatment of skin diseases

The unique healing, antifungal, as well as antiseptic properties of echinacea help to treat purulent lesions of the skin, make it possible to quickly relieve inflammation, pain in case of skin lesions. Specialists prescribe echinacea for skin diseases such as:

furunculosis;
herpes, papillomas;
eczema;
burns of varying degrees;
ulcerative lesion.

Lotions and compresses with echinacea alleviate the condition of psoriasis - eliminate peeling and itching. Those who suffer from cracked heels are advised to lubricate the cracks with grass-based oil at night, after steaming their feet with hot water.

In cosmetology, the plant is used to eliminate acne on the face. They are wiped with herbal lotion. After such a procedure, small cracks heal, redness disappears. People with problematic facial skin are well suited for fresh juice of the leaves of the plant, which should be wiped over the skin. This method also allows you to smooth out wrinkles. When caring for the skin of the whole body, baths with echinacea at a comfortable temperature will be effective.

Important! Echinacea-based preparations can brighten the skin of the face. This property is used to get rid of age spots.

Vitamins, antioxidants and trace elements of echinacea are included in the composition of shampoos, conditioners, hair masks. Such funds stop hair loss, give them a healthy look, eliminate seborrhea by normalizing the condition of the scalp.

Echinacea tincture - benefits and harms

The most commonly used alcohol tincture of echinacea. It gives positive results in the treatment of a number of the most well-known pathologies. Tincture benefits:

Stabilizes the thyroid gland without affecting the overall hormonal state.
In the form of baths, compresses, lotions eliminates skin problems. Widely used by dermatologists and cosmetologists.
It copes well with stomatitis, tonsillitis, gingivitis.
Relieves urinary tract infections. Eliminates inflammatory processes of the digestive system.
Promotes the speedy recovery of the body after chemotherapy, long-term viral diseases.

Important! Echinacea tincture is not prescribed for pregnant women, nursing mothers and children under 12 years of age. Infusions and decoctions are suitable for this category of patients.

Herb tincture is indispensable for lesions of the oral cavity of various etiologies: periodontal disease, glossitis, tonsillitis. The effect of the tincture can be observed if you rub it every evening on sore joints. Such a tool is useful to use if the patient has myositis or sciatica.

Due to the alcohol base, the tincture is contraindicated in patients with a history of drug allergy, autoimmune diseases, and cancer of the circulatory system. You can not drink tincture to people whose occupation is associated with driving a car.
Do not get carried away with the reception of tincture. Exceeding the dose or timing of admission can lead to unpleasant consequences.

Signs of an overdose:

skin itching;
hives;
lowering blood pressure;
nausea.

There is an opinion that echinacea tincture is absolutely harmless. People drink it when they see fit, in unlimited quantities. This is wrong and unsafe. The desired result will be achieved only if the optimal dose is strictly observed (3-6 ml per day), the recommended intake regimen is followed (3 times a day for 10 days).

Tincture for boosting immunity

Due to its rich, harmonious composition, echinacea tincture increases the body's resistance to the action of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and attacks by harmful microorganisms. This helps people avoid infection with diseases of various origins, especially during the off-season, when the immune system is most weakened. It has been proven that patients who take the tincture during an illness recover faster.

In order to maintain the immune system at the proper level, it is necessary to start taking the tincture according to the following scheme:

First day. Drink 40 drops at once, eat in half an hour. After 2 hours, also half an hour before meals, take the next 20 drops.
Second and subsequent days. Drink tincture three times a day, 20 drops before meals.
The duration of the course is 14 days. The next course can be repeated no earlier than 6 months later.

How to make homemade echinacea tincture

Echinacea tincture is sold in pharmacies. But you can cook it yourself at home. To be sure of the quality of raw materials, it is better to buy it all in the same pharmacies. Leaves, roots and flowers are suitable for tincture. When self-collecting a plant, one should take into account the fact that the greatest benefit will be from leaves collected in summer, and from stems and roots - in autumn.

Well-dried, crushed parts of echinacea are placed in a container, then poured with either alcohol or vodka. For 50 g of raw materials, ¼ liter of alcohol or 500 ml of vodka will be required.

Echinacea tablets, ampoules price

Many pharmaceutical companies produce echinacea in tablets. The popularity of this form of release is that tablet preparations are convenient to carry with you, and additional funds will not be needed to take them. Echinacea tablets contain an extract of the plant or its juice.

Indications and contraindications for tablets are the same as for other forms of preparations based on echinacea. Tablets are taken within a week up to 4 pieces per day.

In ampoules of 2 ml, echinacea is available for intramuscular, intravenous, subcutaneous administration. In this form, the plant is used as an anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating agent. The drug has a mild sedative, analgesic and hemostatic property. Parenteral administration of echinacea is prescribed for myositis, radiculitis, arthritis, sepsis, genital infections.

Important! If it is impossible to administer the drug parenterally, you can give the patient to drink the contents of the ampoule without diluting. The dose depends on the age of the patient. Adults are prescribed the drug 1 ampoule every 2 to 3 days.

Traditional medicine recipes

Echinacea is used not only in traditional medicine as pharmacological preparations. You can prepare products with it yourself, using both a fresh plant and a dried one. Folk recipes are no less effective.

Echinacea in the treatment of burns, stomach diseases

Grind 50 g of dry grass roots, place in a glass container, pour 200 g of olive oil, leave for 30 days, then strain. Drink twice a day for 1 tbsp. spoon after eating. Burns are treated with oil infusion topically.

Echinacea for fatigue

clean and grind the fresh root;
completely fill with alcohol;
remove the container in a dark, cool place for 14 days;
after time, strain and squeeze.

Alcoholic extract drink 1 tsp. 3 times with water, after 30 minutes a meal follows.

Treatment of cuts with echinacea

A tablespoon of the root is poured with 150 - 200 ml of boiling water. Then put in a water bath for 30 minutes, cool. Apply a napkin soaked in a decoction to the damaged area of \u200b\u200bthe skin every 3 to 4 hours.

Echinacea for flu, colds

Fresh flowers in the amount of 3 pieces, or 10 grams of root or leaves are poured into 1.5 liters of boiling water. Cover tightly and leave for half an hour. Take a strained infusion of 200 ml per day to prevent influenza, in the initial stages - 3 cups per day.

1 spoon of a mixture of all parts of echinacea brew 500 ml of boiling water, leave for 10 - 15 minutes. Take half a glass with honey.

Acne Lotion

Combine 30 g of a mixture of leaves and roots of the plant with 20 g of string and 20 g of chamomile. Herbs pour ½ liter of vodka. After 14 days, the lotion can be wiped over the skin of the face.

Before self-preparation of infusions, decoctions, teas with echinacea, you need to know when and how you can use products with echinacea.

When not to use echinacea

Despite the fact that echinacea is practically harmless and helps in case of numerous pathologies, it is necessary to consult a doctor before starting treatment for advice and prescribing the correct dose. Like many medications, echinacea products have their limitations. Conditions in which the use of echinacea is contraindicated:

mental disorders;
malignant lesion of the blood;
tuberculosis in any form;
AIDS, HIV;
multiple sclerosis;
period of pregnancy, lactation.

Patients with diabetes should use echinacea with caution, as the plant is capable of producing insulin.

Even if a person does not have any of the diseases listed above, individual hypersensitivity to the components of the echinacea plant can be observed. Symptoms of intolerance are as follows: skin rash, severe itching, hypotension, swelling of the face, limbs, heavy breathing.

Important! Echinacea treatment is not recommended to start in hot weather. Echinacea-based preparations should not be taken for more than 2 to 3 weeks.

Echinacea preparations serve as powerful, naturally occurring immunomodulators and have virtually no negative health side effects. Despite the safety for the human body as part of a short course of administration, it is advisable to consult a doctor regarding the possibility of their use, taking into account the existing contraindications.

Echinosides are rich in roots and flowers, they serve as natural antibiotics, exhibiting properties similar to penicillin, and are able to fight heterogeneous groups of pathogenic microorganisms. These same substances cleanse the human body of free radicals.
Polysaccharides are found in the aerial parts of the plant. Once inside the body, they envelop cells, protecting them from viral and bacterial aggression, and also help them restore their structure.
Alkylamides are extracted mainly from the roots, these substances are excellent pain relievers, so they are used as broad-spectrum anesthetics.
Inulin is found in the root of echinacea, it activates the activity of white blood cells, lymphocytes, due to which they quickly eliminate populations of infectious agents. The immune response strengthened in this way contributes to a quick recovery.
Mineral substances of the plant (iron, potassium, aluminum, magnesium), essential oils, flavonoids, chlorogenic acid and synorin, and vitamins also play an active role in maintaining immunity.

Echinacea preparations are indicated to combat staphylococcal and streptococcal infections, tonsillitis, furunculosis, sinusitis. They are effective for the treatment and prevention of colds in the off-season.

Indications for use

Indications for the use of products with echinacea include the following conditions:

the appearance of boils and rashes on the skin;
herpes;
insomnia, increased irritability;
taking antibiotics;
high susceptibility to colds;
long and difficult recovery;
weakness, lethargy, loss of strength;
smoking, drinking alcohol;
unfavorable ecological situation;
other signs of reduced immunity.

Video: Program "About the most important thing": echinacea for immunity

Forms of release and rules for taking echinacea preparations

There is a wide variety of options for medicines and tonics for immunity based on vegetable raw materials of echinacea:

dried parts of the plant are packed in packs of 30 or 100 g;
ready-made multi-component herbal teas for brewing are most often packaged in filter bags;
plant juice is offered for use in the form of drops, which must be washed down with water;
liquid extract in vials of 50-100 ml can be used to make tea;
tablets with a dosage of 100-200 mg in packs of 20-60 pcs. are produced under various trade names ("Immunorm", "Estifan", "Immunal"), they may also contain vitamins;
homeopathic remedies are presented in the form of granules;
solutions for injections ("Echinacea Compositum C" - a drug for intramuscular injection).

An alcohol extract can be used for prophylaxis for 14 days for adults in the amount of 20 drops twice a day shortly before a meal. In cases of severe impairment of immunity, the course of administration is extended to a month, and the amount of the drug is increased to 25 drops.

As part of the complex treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, bacterial infections and influenza, as well as during periods of exacerbation of chronic diseases, echinacea tincture for immunity is consumed three times a day half an hour before a meal, 25 drops each. It is especially useful to take the drug immediately, as soon as the first symptoms of a cold appear, and up to 2 days after their complete disappearance.

Echinacea use in children

The child's body is extremely susceptible to colds. The emerging immunity cannot cope with the abundance of pathogenic microbes that are constantly present in kindergartens and schools, which can cause frequent recurrent acute respiratory viral infections, an increase in the duration of the recovery period, and the occurrence of complications.

Alcohol extracts of echinacea under 12 years of age cannot be used; for babies, there are special syrups, lozenges, granules, tablets or emulsions. At home, you can make a water extract by brewing plant materials like regular tea.

From the age of 12, an alcoholic tincture of echinacea is used to increase the immunity of a child, diluted with water in a ratio of 1 to 3, and allowed to drink 5-10 drops of the resulting remedy three times a day before meals. Tea from vegetable raw materials can be taken by children from 3 years old 3 times a day for 50 ml, the course should not exceed 5 weeks. It can be consumed in its pure form or added to juices and compotes.

Warning: The dosage of pharmaceutical preparations of echinacea or a recipe for home-made potions from it for children must be agreed with the local pediatrician.

Recipes for self-preparation of medicinal products

Echinacea tincture is available from pharmacies without a prescription and is also easy to make at home. You can grow echinacea in your backyard. Medicinal raw materials are prepared by collecting grass during flowering, rhizomes are dug up in the fall. It is permissible to dry the aerial parts in a natural way, cutting into pieces. The roots are pre-washed and dried at a temperature of 40-60 ° C until brittle, otherwise they may be damaged by mold.

Important: In folk medicine, it is customary to use plants for medicinal purposes that are at least 2 years old.

Recipe for homemade tincture of echinacea leaves

Compound:
Fresh echinacea leaves - 200 g (or dried herbal raw materials in the amount of 50 g)
Vodka - 500 g

Application:
The leaves of the plant are put into a bottle and poured with vodka, then the dishes are placed in darkness and coolness for 10-12 days. The composition must be shaken daily.

Recipe for homemade tincture of echinacea rhizomes

Compound:
Echinacea root - 100 g
Vodka (alcohol) - 0.5 l

Application:
Plant materials must be washed well, cleaned and placed in a glass dish with vodka or alcohol. The infusion requires daily shaking. Cooking takes 10-12 days in a dark cool place.

echinacea decoction recipe

Compound:
Chopped Echinacea herb - 1 tsp
Water - 1 glass

Application:
Pour vegetable raw materials into boiling water, simmer the mixture in a water bath for about a quarter of an hour, then remove for 30 minutes to infuse and strain the liquid. The drink is consumed in a third of a glass three times a day before meals for 10 days, then you need to take a break for 5 days and repeat the course if necessary.

echinacea water infusion recipe

Compound:
Echinacea leaves and flowers - 1 tsp.
Water - 200 g

Application:
Pour boiling water over the plant, brew for several minutes under the lid. It is useful to add honey to taste in the cooled and infused liquid. The drink can be taken up to 3 times a day during a meal for a week and a half, after which it is necessary to take a break of at least 10 days.

Contraindications

Echinacea preparations should not be taken in acute leukemia, the presence of malignant neoplasms, viral immunodeficiency, diabetes, individual intolerance and allergies, tuberculosis and systemic lupus erythematosus. The constant and regular intake of funds based on this plant can contribute to disruption of the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and an increase in the excitability of nervous activity.

It can also be toxic to the liver if used long term. It should be excluded joint intake of echinacea tinctures with other drugs that have a detrimental effect on the health of this organ. These include:

amiodarone;
anabolic steroid;
methotrexate;
ketoconazole.

The intake of immunosuppressants (cyclosporine, corticosteroids), the recovery period after organ transplantation are also contraindications to treatment with echinacea tincture to stimulate immunity, since in this case there is a risk of exacerbation of the disease and the development of autoimmune processes.

The use of drugs during pregnancy and breastfeeding is controversial in the medical environment, so the decision on the possibility of their use should be entrusted to a specialist. Alcohol tinctures of plant parts during this period are prohibited for use.

Video: How to Harvest Echinacea

The herb Echinacea purpurea belongs to the aster family, the instructions for use of the drug indicate that the plant has an antimicrobial effect, helps the rapid healing of wounds, improves blood composition, strengthens bones, improves immunity, cleanses the human circulatory and lymphatic systems. The healing properties of echinacea were known to the ancient Indians. They used the herb for many ailments, from the common cold to the bite of poisonous insects.

What is Echinacea purpurea

The herbaceous perennial plant Echinacea purpurea (purple cone, prairie flower) contains many nutrients that are beneficial to humans. The name of the plant in Latin is echinacea purpurea. The flower has an antiviral, antibacterial, antimicrobial effect, so it is often used in pharmacology and traditional medicine.

Morphological description: purple echinacea plant has a short multi-headed rhizome, branched straight stems up to 120 cm high. Green leaves are rough and oval, arranged in the next order. Inflorescences - single large baskets of purple color. As a rule, echinacea blooms from July to mid-autumn. For medicinal raw materials, all parts of the flower are used - the stem, root, inflorescences, leaves. Echinacea purpurea herb can be stored for no more than 6 months.

Compound

Healing properties in purple echinacea have stems, flowers, leaf juice, seeds, rhizomes. The plant contains essential oils, vitamins, polysaccharides, tannins, resins, organic acids, glycosides, alkaloids. There are flavonoids, enzymes, inulin, phosphates, fiber, saponins, phytosterols in echinacea. The plant contains phenolic acids and polyenes - substances that destroy different types of fungi. Chemical composition of purple echinacea:

calcium;
potassium;
selenium;
iron;
silicon;
cobalt;
zinc;
manganese;
carotene;
vitamins E, C, A.

Medicinal properties

The herb echinacea has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. The plant stimulates chemotaxis, promotes the release of cytokines, increases the phagocytic activity of macrophages. With course therapy, there is an increase in immunity and resistance to the effects of adverse factors. Preparations, including purple echinacea, have a high activity against streptococcus, herpes viruses, staphylococcus, E. coli. In addition, the plant has the following properties:

anticarcinogenic;
antiviral;
hemostatic;
immunomodulatory;
antitumor;
antispasmodic;
hepatoprotective;
antiallergic;
healing;
antifungal;
antioxidant;
rejuvenating.

Application

Purple echinacea products are often used to treat burns. In addition, they are able to accelerate the healing of purulent wounds, skin rashes, eczema, relieve pain, protect the body from viruses and bacteria. The plant has a depressing effect on streptococci, Escherichia coli. Purple Echinacea is one of the most powerful herbal immune stimulants that helps to cope with various diseases faster. In folk medicine, the flower is used for:

pneumonia, bronchitis;
diseases of the bladder and liver;
poliomyelitis;
smallpox;
diseases of the female reproductive system;
blood poisoning;
diabetes mellitus;
oncological diseases;
exposure to heavy metals and fungicides.

Benefits of Echinacea

Prairie flower or Echinacea purpurea is considered one of the popular medicinal plants in the world. Many healers are sure that it surpasses ginseng in its medicinal properties and can cure many diseases. The main advantage of echinacea is that preparations based on it have a beneficial effect on the immune system, strengthening the body's defenses. This is due to the fact that the grass in its composition has a huge amount of active substances, trace elements, essential oils. In addition, echinacea contains polysaccharides, tannins, glucose and more.

With a cold

A natural antibiotic and antiseptic, the herb echinacea is often used during an exacerbation of seasonal diseases. Even if a person is already sick, you can drink a herbal tincture at the very beginning of the development of the disease so that the disease goes easier. Purple echinacea for colds has an antimicrobial effect, lowers the temperature, and prevents viruses from multiplying. To quickly pass the symptoms of the disease, you should make tea: 1 tsp. dry chopped grass must be poured with 0.5 liters of boiling water and infused for about 40 minutes. It is necessary to take an infusion with echinacea 3 times a day, 250 ml each.

For children

Doctors often advise parents to try purple echinacea to reduce the duration, severity, and frequency of flu, colds, ear infections, and the common cold. Only a pediatrician can determine the dosage, you can not self-medicate. The drug, even in a harmless form (tea or decoction), can harm the baby, so you should not give it without consulting a specialist. As a general rule, echinacea syrup is best for children. Take this remedy according to the following scheme:

children at 2 years old, 1 tsp. 250 ml of water twice a day;
babies from 3 to 5 years old - 2 teaspoons of echinacea per glass, also 2 times a day;
from 5 to 12 years - a tablespoon 2 times a day (you can not dilute with water).

For face

Echinacea extract slows down the aging process, promotes tissue repair, protects against dehydration and flaking. The plant is often used in cosmetology. It effectively protects the skin from pathogenic microbes. In addition, plant-based products are hypoallergenic. Tincture of purple echinacea in the form of compresses and lotions is used for eczema, psoriasis, boils, acne, abscesses, abscesses, burns, warts. To remove freckles, age spots, with insect bites, decoctions from the plant are used..

echinacea and blood pressure

The natural medicinal plant echinacea is known for its ability to increase blood pressure (BP) in hypotensive patients. It is undesirable to use a remedy containing a plant for hypertensive patients, because. in this case, it will raise blood pressure even more. With low blood pressure, purple echinacea increases vitality, and with high blood pressure, taking the medicine will only aggravate the condition and increase the pressure to critical numbers.

What does echinacea treat?

Immunostimulating agent - tincture of echinacea purpurea has a positive effect on the mental state and nervous system of a person. The medicine effectively fights mental disorder, depression, overwork. Echinacea is often used in the treatment of colds, liver diseases and such diseases:

diabetes;
flu;
prostatitis;
urological ailments in men (vesiculitis, prostate adenoma);
angina;
bladder infections;
hematological diseases;
poisoning of varying severity;
hepatitis;
infectious diseases of the respiratory tract;
indigestion, inflammation of the stomach;
arthrosis, arthritis;
infectious and inflammatory diseases of the kidneys;
stomatitis;
inflammation of the appendages, ovaries;
diphtheria, coccal infection;
herpes;
oncological diseases;
eczema, psoriasis.

Echinacea preparations

Echinacea-based drugs have been widely used in medicine. The plant is often included in dietary supplements. Products that include a purple cone are sold in pharmacies in various forms - capsules, alcohol tincture, dried flowers, drops, teas, tablets, lozenges, powders. The most popular echinacea medications are:

Immunal. Means of plant origin. Prescribe a medicine for the prevention of colds, strengthening immunity and as an adjuvant for long-term use of antibiotics. Children (from 12 years of age) and adults can take Immunal in 2.5 ml of solution or 1 tablet 3 times a day. When using the drug, adverse reactions may occur: skin rash, shortness of breath, itching.
Estifan. The drug has anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory effects. The drug is prescribed as an adjuvant for prolonged antibiotic therapy. The dose and duration of use should be determined by a specialist. Rarely, when taking Estifan, you may experience: vomiting, nausea, insomnia.

Instructions for use of Echinacea purpurea

Such a popular immunomodulator as purple echinacea has different forms of release: tablets, ampoules, tincture, drops, lozenges, capsules, solution. Regardless of the type of drug, the plant effectively increases human immunity, helps with physical fatigue of a person, with reduced muscle tone. Echinacea increases the body's defenses, it effectively fights radiation, radiation sickness. Instructions for the use of the drug depends on the form of release, the age of the patient and the duration of the disease.

Tincture

A drug based on echinacea roots in the form of a tincture or solution has a positive effect on the central nervous system, reduces the reproduction of pathogenic microbes, and increases the number of leukocytes in the blood. Taking echinacea tincture eliminates the spread of inflammation in acute and chronic kidney diseases, reduces the likelihood of contracting viral infections in autumn and winter. The total duration of treatment is prescribed by the doctor. Take the tincture as follows:

for an adult, the first three days the dose of the medicine should be no more than 30 drops, once 30 minutes before meals;
then the daily dose must be increased to 60 drops, divided into 3 doses;
children over 12 years old should take a tincture diluted with water in a ratio of 1: 2 - 10 drops 3 times a day;
for external use, 15 ml of tincture should be diluted with 100 ml of saline.

Decoction

With insomnia and the flu virus, to improve appetite, normalize pressure, it is recommended to use a decoction of echinacea. To prepare it, you need to take a teaspoon of fresh or dried leaves, grind and brew with a glass of hot water. Next, the mixture should be put in a water bath and boiled for 20 minutes, strain, leave for about an hour and drink 3 times a day before meals. This composition improves appetite, cures headaches, stomach ulcers, normalizes sleep and pressure.

Echinacea oil

Medicinal plant in the form of oil is effective for infected wounds, carbuncles, burns, abscesses, trophic ulcers, severe bedsores, cervical erosion. Use the drug to care for dry skin. In addition, purple echinacea oil smoothes stretch marks, wrinkles, and old scars. Method of application inside: twice a day, a teaspoon half an hour before meals. The course of admission is one week, then you need to take a break for 14 days. Warm echinacea oil can be applied externally by rubbing it into the problem area.

One of the most important rules for growing strong and healthy seedlings is the presence of the “right” soil mixture. Usually, gardeners use two options for growing seedlings: either purchased soil mixture, or made independently from several components. In both cases, the fertility of the soil for seedlings, to put it mildly, is doubtful. This means that the seedlings will require additional nutrition from you. In this article we will talk about simple and effective top dressing for seedlings.

After a decade of dominance in the catalogs of the original variegated and bright varieties of tulips, trends began to change. At exhibitions, the world's best designers offer to recall the classics and pay homage to the charming white tulips. Sparkling under the warm rays of the spring sun, they look especially festive in the garden. Meeting spring after a long wait, tulips seem to remind you that white is not only the color of snow, but also the joyful celebration of flowering.

Despite the fact that cabbage is one of the most popular vegetables, not all summer residents, especially beginners, can grow its seedlings. In the conditions of the apartment they are hot and dark. In this case, it is impossible to obtain high-quality seedlings. And without strong, healthy seedlings, it is difficult to count on a good harvest. Gardeners with experience know that it is better to sow cabbage for seedlings in greenhouses or greenhouses. And some even grow cabbage by direct sowing of seeds in the ground.

Flower growers tirelessly discover new indoor plants for themselves, replacing one with another. And here the conditions of a particular room are of no small importance, because the requirements for their content in plants are different. Lovers of beautiful flowering plants often face difficulties. Indeed, in order for the flowering to be long and plentiful, such specimens require special care. There are not very many unpretentious plants blooming in rooms, and one of these is streptocarpus.

Calendula (marigold) is a flower that stands out among others with its bright color. Low bushes with delicate orange inflorescences can be found on the side of the road, in the meadow, in the front garden next to the house, or even in vegetable beds. Calendula is so widespread in our area that it seems that it has always grown here. Read about interesting ornamental varieties of calendula, as well as the use of calendula in cooking and medicine in our article.

I think many will agree that we perceive the wind well only in a romantic aspect: we are sitting in a cozy warm house, and the wind is raging outside the window ... In fact, the wind that walks through our plots is a problem and there is nothing good in it. By creating windbreaks with plants, we break a strong wind into several weak streams and significantly weaken its destructive power. How to protect the site from the wind will be discussed in this article.

A shrimp and avocado sandwich for breakfast or dinner is easy to make! Such a breakfast contains almost all the necessary products that will recharge you with energy so that you don’t want to eat before lunch, while extra centimeters will not appear on your waist. This is the most delicious and light sandwich, after perhaps the classic cucumber sandwich. Such a breakfast contains almost all the necessary products that will recharge you with energy so that you don’t want to eat before lunch.

Modern ferns are those rare plants of antiquity that, despite the passage of time and all sorts of cataclysms, not only survived, but in many respects were able to maintain their former appearance. In a room format, of course, it is not possible to grow any of the representatives of ferns, but some species have successfully adapted to living indoors. They look great as single plants or adorn a group of decorative foliage flowers.

Pilaf with pumpkin and meat is an Azerbaijani plov, which differs from the traditional oriental plov in the way of cooking. All ingredients for this recipe are cooked separately. Rice is boiled with ghee, saffron and turmeric. The meat is fried separately until golden brown, pumpkin slices as well. Separately, prepare onions with carrots. Then everything is laid in layers in a cauldron or a thick-walled pan, a little water or broth is poured in and simmered over low heat for about half an hour.

Basil - a wonderful universal seasoning for meat, fish, soups and fresh salads - is well known to all lovers of Caucasian and Italian cuisine. However, upon closer inspection, basil greens are surprisingly versatile. For several seasons now, our family has been drinking fragrant basil tea with pleasure. In a flower bed with perennials and in flowerpots with annual flowers, a bright spicy plant also found a worthy place.

Thuja or juniper - which is better? Such a question can sometimes be heard in garden centers and in the market where these plants are sold. He, of course, is not entirely correct and correct. Well, it's like asking which is better - night or day? Coffee or tea? Woman or man? Surely everyone will have their own answer and opinion. And yet ... But what if we approach without prejudice and try to compare juniper and thuja according to certain objective parameters? Let's try.

Red Cauliflower Cream Soup with Crispy Smoked Bacon is a delicious, tender and creamy soup that adults and children will love. If you are preparing a dish for the whole family, including toddlers, then do not add a lot of spices, although many modern children are not at all against spicy flavors. Bacon for serving can be prepared in different ways - fry in a pan, as in this recipe, or bake in the oven on parchment for about 20 minutes at a temperature of 180 degrees.

For some, the time of sowing seeds for seedlings is a long-awaited and pleasant chore, for some it is a difficult necessity, and someone thinks about whether it is easier to buy ready-made seedlings on the market or from friends? Whatever it was, even if you refused to grow vegetables, for sure, you still have to sow something. These are flowers, and perennials, conifers and much more. A seedling is still a seedling, no matter what you plant.

A lover of humid air and one of the most compact and rare orchids, pafinia is a real star for most orchid growers. Its flowering rarely lasts longer than a week, but it is an unforgettable sight. Unusual striped patterns on the huge flowers of a modest orchid want to be considered endlessly. In room culture, pafinia is rightly credited to the ranks of species that are difficult to grow. It became fashionable only with the spread of interior terrariums.

Pumpkin marmalade with ginger is a warming sweet that can be prepared almost all year round. Pumpkin has a long shelf life - sometimes I manage to save a few vegetables until summer, fresh ginger and lemons are always available these days. Lemon can be substituted for lime or orange for a variety of flavors - variety in sweets is always nice. Ready marmalade is laid out in dry jars, it can be stored at room temperature, but it is always more useful to prepare fresh products.

In 2014, the Japanese company Takii seed introduced a petunia with a striking salmon-orange petal color. By association with the bright colors of the southern sunset sky, the unique hybrid was named African Sunset (“African Sunset”). Needless to say, this petunia instantly won the hearts of gardeners and was in great demand. But in the last two years, the curiosity has suddenly disappeared from shop windows. Where did the orange petunia go?