Echinacea and the Natural Treatment of the Common Cold

The herb Echinacea has been popular for plenty of years now as a feasible way to reduce the signs and shorten the period of the common chilled.

There's been plenty of studies of Echinacea and its effects on colds, and while the scientific proof so far is mostly inconclusive, there is strong anecdotal proof to recommend that Echinacea can at least shorten the length of a chilled and relieve a number of the most troublesome signs.

Echinacea is known to be a medicinal herb, and it's been used in traditional medicine for plenty of years. It's been suggested that Echinacea may boost the immune process, and that is why it may be effective in cases of colds, flu and upper respiratory infections. When taken externally, Echinacea can sometimes encourage the healing of burns and wounds.

Plenty of natural health practitioners recommend that those taking supplements of Echinacea take a dose of up to grams per day. In addition, plenty of herbalists often recommend taking a every day dose of or more grams every day at the first sign of a chilled. Echinacea is best taken in divided doses, spaced at between and hours apart. After the first or days, the dose can be reduced and continued at the lower dose for the next seven days.

It is best to take Echinacea at the first sign of a chilled, and to not take it on an ongoing basis. It is best to limit the length of Echinacea therapy to no over eight weeks.

Echinacea is obtainable in capsules, pills and teas, as well as an ingredient in poultices and ointments. Echinacea tablets and capsules ought to be taken orally with a glass of water. Echinacea can be taken with or without food, but those with sensitive stomachs often prefer taking Echinacea as an infusion or tea. In addition, outside preparations of Echinacea are obtainable, in ointments, lotions, tinctures and poultices. These outside applications can speed healing of wounds and burns.

Side effects from taking Echinacea are rare, but if side effects are seen the Echinacea treatment ought to immediately be discontinued. Side effects that have been reported have included a short term fever, nausea, vomiting, tingling of the tongue and sort throat.

When taking Echinacea, or any other herbal product, it is important to read and follow all label directions carefully. It is also important to notify your doctor of all medications, including over the counter medications and herbal supplements, that you are taking. Having a complete medical history, and a list of all medications and supplements, will permit your doctor to best tailor a treatment plan for you.