This week, we’ll be learning the history behind the Echinacea. Allow History of Herbs to take you on an educational journey to explore the secrets of our most precious herbs and plants. Dive into a world where herbs reign supreme, and learn about the historical importance of popular herbs that exhibit powerful health benefits.

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Herbal extract that works to naturally boost and fortify the immune system.

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Herbal extract containing 3 types of Echinacea root, Angustifolia, Pallida, and Purpurea that helps to boost the immune system.

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The winter months provide the perfect storm of viral traps. A cough, head cold, or the dreaded coronavirus is waiting around every corner. The best way to make it through the cold without catching a cold is by keeping your immune system strong. COVID-19 safety measures make everyone more cautious about their healthy and safety, which helps keep them safe from other viruses. Sometimes, though, you just need to boost your health, herbal style. 

Alternative healing modalities have kept people healthy for thousands of years. Various herbs contain immune-boosting properties that give the body a helping hand when it encounters pathogens. The herbs in this article are essentially immunostimulants, also known as immune stimulants, which help the body resist illness after exposure to a pathogen. They enhance the body’s antimicrobial efforts to activate white blood cell activity. Keep reading which immune stimulants can help you fight pathogens and the common cold. 

Japanese Honeysuckle

Commonly made into tinctures, syrups, poultices, and compresses, Japanese honeysuckle is one of the most widely used medicinal herbs in the world. Its popularity among Western herbalists is relatively new, but Chinese herbalists have been using it for many years. Historically, herbalists used it to treat influenza and related symptoms like sore throat or stuffy nose. According to a 2015 study, scientists concluded that Japanese honeysuckle may contain a natural product that helps suppress viral infection. 

Elderberry

Recently, elderberry is the talk of the town, and you’ve likely heard about it. It contains powerful antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal properties, giving your immune system a helping hand. Some studies have even found that it effectively treats the cold and flu. You can find it in the form of tea, extracts, tinctures, or supplements. There’s no need to chug a whole bottle of elderberry extract, though; a teaspoon at a time will do you good. 

Japanese Catnip

No, this is not the stuff you give to your cat. Japanese catnip is primarily found in mainland China and it contains numerous beneficial compounds, including menthol, schizonodiol, and cineole. Menthol is the primary compound in the mint plant, so this herb has similar health properties to mint. Tradition Chinese Medicine (TCM) used this herb to help reduce chills, treat common cold symptoms, stop bleeding, reduce fevers, and soothe headaches. Recent studies found that the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in Japanese catnip may reduce common cold symptoms. 

Echinacea

When it comes to immune function, the one herb you should know about is echinacea. This readily available herb comes in the form of supplements, tinctures, teas, or extracts. It is an immune-stimulating herb that is safe and effective against the common cold. A 2015 meta-analysis found that echinacea is beneficial for people with low immune function, and that it can reduce cold symptoms by 35 percent. Echinacea is most effective if you use it when you experience the first sign of a cold symptom. 

Andographis

Often referred to as green chiretta, andographis is a flowering herb that has historical use in Ayurveda and TCM. These forms of herbal medicine consider it to be an ancient healing herb that has a cooling and cleansing effect on the body. Two plant studies found that adographis contains antiviral and antibacterial properties, both of which are necessary to fight off common cold symptoms. One study found that andographis extract may increase a person’s white blood cell count to boost immune function. Another study found that it may help relieve upper respiratory tract infections and cold symptoms like runny nose or sore throat. 

Prickly Ash

You may be less familiar with this herb, despite the fact that it is an excellent immune stimulant. Prickly ash was commonly used by the Native Americans to help boost lymphatic drainage and increase circulation. The branches and trunk of the plant have serious thorns, but the internal bark and leaves have myriad medicinal properties. Be warned that this herb has a strong taste, and it can even make your tongue feel tingly. It’s best to take this in small doses to encourage lymphatic drainage and stimulate circulation.

Balloon Flower

This flower pops if it contains too much air. Not really, but they bloom in late summer and have attractive, striking purple flowers. Used in TCM, balloon flower helps to boost immune function, strengthen lung power, rid the body of phlegm, and reduce the duration of cold symptoms. Experts attribute these abilities to the powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The active compounds help to open the airways and maintain healthy mucus levels. This can be great if you are combating cold symptoms like coughing, congestion, or shortness of breath. 

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Echinacea is almost synonymous with the common cold. It is a powerful, world-renowned, immune-boosting herb that benefits bodily health unlike most plants in existence. The Native Americans used it for centuries to remedy various illnesses, and now it is regularly prescribed to treat pain, reduce inflammation, get rid of migraines, and remedy the common cold or flu. Now you see why everyone loves it so much!

What Is Echinacea?

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, there are nine known species of Echinacea, all of which are native to North America. Of these nine species, only three are used in herbal supplements: Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, and Echinacea purpurea. Extracts, teas, capsules, tablets, and tinctures are created from the roots and aboveground parts of the plant. In fact, medical experts held Echinacea in high regard before the introduction of antibiotics in 1950. Antibiotics became all the rage and medicine shifted away from herbal remedies. People did not forget about Echinacea, though, and these health benefits prove that.

Health Benefits Of Echinacea

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to defend itself from foreign invaders, but inflammation can last longer than necessary. If there is chronic inflammation in the body, the risk of developing chronic diseases increases. Several studies have identified the anti-inflammatory properties of Echinacea. One 30-day study found that adults, who had osteoarthritis, experienced reduced inflammation, pain, and swelling after taking daily Echinacea supplements. Additionally, the same adults did not respond positively to non-steroidal inflammatory drugs.

Immune Booster

A meta-analysis published in the Lancet Infectious Diseases journal evaluated Echinacea from 14 studies. The results were that Echinacea reduces the risk of catching a common cold by 58%, and that it reduces the duration of the common cold by about one and a half days. Other studies found that the dosage of Echinacea can influence the immune system. Ten milligrams of Echinacea per one kilogram of body weight, taken over a 10-day period, helps to boost immunity.

Anxiety Relief

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues in the United States, affecting about one in every five American adults. Within recent years, people have started to use Echinacea for anxiety relief. Research has discovered that Echinacea contains alkamides, rosmarinic acid, and caffeic acid, all of which help reduce anxious feelings. Initial research is promising, but more research is needed to confirm the positive effects of Echinacea on anxiety.

Cancer Fighter

Did you know that Echinacea is currently used as an alternative cancer treatment? The recommendation is to take it alongside, or in place of, conventional therapy. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) published a study that examined the effects of Echinacea on brain cancer. The results indicated that Echinacea’s phytochemicals might be valuable in the quest to combat tumors. This research has sparked more interest in the power of phytochemicals from other plants and herbs.

Fights Infection

As you’ve gathered by now, Echinacea is a very powerful herb. Several studies found that it is beneficial for a variety of infections, especially infections that relate to skin issues. Groups of women found that Echinacea was 16% more effective at fighting recurring vaginal infections than taking medicine. Echinacea may also help remedy malaria, syphilis, gum disease, bloodstream infections, and vaginal yeast infections.

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Viruses or bacterial infections are passed around more quickly than social media memes or hot celebrity gossip. The most common viral strains typically induce sore throats or common colds, and the symptoms that occur, while they can be harmless, are quite simply annoying.

Even though common colds and sore throats can be harmless, these conditions result from some sort of infection or virus. If the symptoms go untreated, they can persist longer than necessary and may possibly worsen to more serious illnesses that might keep you in bed for a few weeks. You don’t want to be the person who develops bronchitis because he/she didn’t gargle with salt water, drink tea, or perform a Neti pot nasal rinse. These remedies are easy to do and can provide sore throat relief in an instant without the need for medications. Let’s explore how to get rid of a sore throat below.

Raw Honey

Raw honey has been one of the most popular sore throat remedy choices for centuries. Not only does it soothe the pain, but it also has strong antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which help keep the germs at bay. In doing so, this allows your immune system to function more efficiently.

Salt Water

Salt water is one of the best home remedies for a sore throat, and almost everyone has tried it. There is no denying the fact that gargling salt water provides immediate relief by killing the bacteria that is causing the inflammation in the first place. When you gargle with salt water, make sure that the water is hot, but not boiling, because the heat helps to kill bacteria.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is another sore throat treatment that has been used for hundreds of years, especially in Chinese culture. Cinnamon is not only delicious in culinary creations, but is also full of antioxidants and has numerous antibacterial properties, which help to battle the viruses or bacteria that cause sore throats.

Echinacea

Echinacea is a plant that has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties, making it an excellent candidate to use when you have a sore throat. You can buy it in most pharmacies as a supplement, tincture, or in the form of a soothing tea that has long-lasting benefits.

Stay Hydrated With Water and Tea

We already discussed a few different tea options on this list, but one of the simplest sore throat remedies you should keep in mind is hydrating with water. The one-two punch combination of water and hot tea helps your body fight off bacteria by keeping the throat moist. At the same time, you also provide enough fluids to the immune system, which is essential for it to function properly. You can find a selection of herbal teas by clicking here, or find herbal caffeine-free teas in most grocery stores.

Herbs

Besides the Echinacea that we previously discussed, there are a host of herbs with beneficial qualities, which might be just what you need when trying to figure out how to soothe a sore throat. The most popular herbs for a sore throat include chamomile, mint, marshmallow root, sage, and thyme. Get your hands on these and brew some teas!

Baking Soda Gargle

If you don’t want to gargle saltwater, try using baking soda, as it has additional antibacterial and soothing properties, which can help make your treatment more effective. You can even consider mixing small amounts of both salt and baking soda to maximize your healing efforts. Try not to do this too much if you have sensitive teeth or gums because the baking soda can cause some mild irritation.

Lemon and Ginger

Mixing lemon and ginger with hot water can often be a more pleasant alternative to gargling saltwater, especially when you consider that it may have just as positive of an effect. Lemon can help break up the mucus in your throat, reducing the discomfort, while the antibacterial qualities of ginger will assist your body in fighting off the bacteria.

Apple Cider Vinegar

You’ve probably already heard about the countless benefits of apple cider vinegar, but you may not have known that it’s also one of the most effective remedies for a sore throat. Just like with lemons, the acidic content of apple cider vinegar helps break down mucus and clear up congestion, which offers natural relief. Don’t drink it straight because that can burn the esophagus. Mix one tablespoon in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it when your throat is irritated.

Humidifiers

Sometimes, the best sore throat remedy is the helping prevent a sore throat in the first place. That’s why a humidifier is a great option! One of the most common reasons for a sore throat is dry air, because it dries out the throat and makes it more susceptible to bacteria.

Essential Oils

Essential oils have been used for centuries to treat various ailments, so it comes as no surprise that they are excellent for sore throats as well. Before we continue, it is not recommended to consume essential oils; rather, the aroma is going to benefit the sore throat and promote healing. Add a few drops of essential oil (eucalyptus and tea tree are great) to a large bowl of boiling water, hover your face over the bowl, and drape a towel over your head and the bowl to create a tent. Inhale the vapors to not only soothe your throat, but to also clear up congestion and kill bacteria.

Rest

Finally, no matter what treatments you end up using, the most important thing is to allow yourself time to rest in order to let the body do its job. If you’re suffering from a sore throat and continue to overexert yourself, it will be tough to beat the infection quickly, and you may end up developing a more serious condition or symptoms that could take much longer to go away. It’s better to give yourself at least a couple of days of rest, whenever possible. Sleep is the best way to rejuvenate the body.

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Viruses exist everywhere, and they can cause health conditions like hepatitis, mononucleosis, HIV, the flu, and even the common cold. While many people commonly opt to get an annual flu shot (influenza vaccination), studies have shown that it is only 80% effective, due to the fact that this virus has mutating strains. Additionally, vaccines don’t properly educate your immune system and they can contain preservatives and chemicals. Wouldn’t it be better if you could use all natural herbs to fight off viruses without harming the body?

Facts About Viruses

A virus is a microscopic organism that can exist almost anywhere on the planet. Viruses can spread through sneezing, coughing, person-to-person contact, sexual contact, or by entering the body through food or water. More often than not, viruses infect plants, fungi, animals, humans, and bacteria. Some viruses are fatal, while others can make you feel ill for only a day or so. Consisting of genetic material, viruses cannot replicate without a host, which classifies them as parasites. Viruses are the most abundant biological entities on the planet.

So What Do Antiviral Herbs Do?

When you consume foods that keep your immune system strong, you have a better chance of fighting off viruses. Antiviral herbs can help to inhibit the development of viruses because they boost the immune system, which helps the body attack viral pathogens. Antiviral herbs also contain anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, and healthy digestive properties.

#1: Echinacea

Echinacea is an amazing herb that is loaded with antimicrobial properties, which are great for the immune system. All varieties of the echinacea herb have phenol compounds. At a base level, phenols protect plants from UV radiation damage and infections. The active substances in phenols control enzymes and cell receptors, and their active antioxidants make them great for keeping human cells healthy.

#2: Astragalus Root

Astragalus root has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for hundreds of years, primarily for enhancing immune function. Several studies have shown that astragalus’ antiviral properties help to stimulate the immune system and inhibit the development of the common cold or flu.

#3: Ginger

If you keep up with our web content, you know that we love ginger. One of our favorite things about ginger is that it helps to cleanse the lymphatic system, also known as the body’s sewage system. It also helps to flush toxins from your organs. Did we mention that ginger prevents the body from accumulating toxins that can make you sick or susceptible to bacterial infections? Well, it does that too!

#4: Oil of Oregano

While fresh oregano is tasty, the health benefits come alive when it is distilled to extract the essential oil. Oil of oregano contains carvacrol and thymol, both of which have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Carvacrol is responsible for reversing viral infections, allergies, parasites, and reducing inflammation.

#5: Cat’s Claw

This herb has a lot of bark, not meow! Okay…that was terrible. People in South America have actually used the bark of cat’s claw as a natural remedy for fevers and digestive conditions, like dysentery, for centuries. Cat’s claw has powerful antiviral properties that can be used to help reduce one’s viral load, and early studies show that it may be beneficial for HIV patients, but more research needs to be conducted.

#6: Elderberry

Elderberry has been popularly used in many cultures for its ability to help fight viral infections, herpes, influenza, and bacterial infections. Almost all of the elderberry plant is usable. You can use the bark, leaves, roots, and flowers, which can be beneficial to brew into a tea when you have the flu. Make an elderberry syrup to boost immune function by clicking here.

#7: Olive Leaf

The antiviral properties of olive leaf have been known to fight back against the common cold and more serious viruses like meningitis, pneumonia, hepatitis B, malaria, gonorrhea, and candida symptoms. Recent research has shown that the extract of olive leaf can fight against viruses that cause influenza or respiratory infections. Olive leaf extract’s compounds can also kill invading organisms, making it so viruses cannot replicate to spread infection.

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The immune system has to work extra hard in the winter months. Viruses and allergens are in the air and being passed around everywhere. To avoid getting sick this winter, there are things you can do to keep yourself healthy by naturaly strengthening the immune system. Turn to these immune-boosting herbs so that sickness doesn’t take you down.

While there are many foods and herbs that can boost your immune system, we are recommending the following two herbs, which have been hailed for their powerful healing benefits for many years.

Echinacea

Echinacea is an amazing herb, which has antimicrobial properties, and it is great for the immune system. All varieties of echinacea have phenol compounds that work to protect the plant from UV radiation damage and infections. The active substances in phenols control enzymes and cell receptors, and their active antioxidants make them great for keeping human cells healthy.

When it comes to the amount of echinacea you should have, it depends on what form you are using. About 6-9ml of echinacea extract is a great daily average to consume, especially when you are sick. Alternatively, you may find it more soothing, especially during the colder months, to drink a cup of echinacea tea three times a day to enhance the immune system. This herb appears to be most effective if you take it as soon as you notice flu or cold symptoms.

Astragalus

Astragalus has been a popular herb in Chinese medicine because of its natural warming properties, which have been believed to enhance the flow of energy (chi). It is great for cleansing your lungs and maintaining lung health. Additionally, astragalus is beneficial for people who have recurring infections because it strengthens the immune system to better protect the body against pathogens.

The standard daily dose of astragalus root extract is 30g. Most extract bottles will have directions for use on the label. If you manage to get your hands on fresh astragalus, you can brew it into a tea.

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Medical professionals have used antibiotics as conventional medicine to remedy bacterial infections since the 1940s. The use of natural antibiotics became a rarity until recently, when people realized the side effects and other health problems caused by prescription antibiotics.

When it comes to taking prescription antibiotics, one in ten people experiences side effects that harm the digestive system. Each drug-based antibiotic you swallow slowly damages destroys the healthy gut flora in the digestive system. Additionally, consuming prescription antibiotics can weaken the immune system, increase food sensitivities, induce inflammation, or cause nutritional deficiencies.

People pop prescription antibiotics like candy. The more you take, the more damage you do to your body. According to the CDC, one in three patients, who are prescribed antibiotics, don’t actually need them. Because of how readily people consume these types of antibiotics, they can start to develop antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Rather than damaging your body, look to natural antibiotics to help fight infection without destroying your gut!

Echinacea

Traditional healers have used this super herb for hundreds of years to treat infections and wounds. According to a recent study published in the Journal of Biomedicine, Echinacea is effective at killing various bacteria, including S. pyogenes, which is responsible for toxic shock syndrome and strep throat. Echinacea can also fight inflammation, which is commonly associated with bacterial infections.

Cinnamon

As one of the world’s most common spices, cinnamon is readily available. This ordinary spice has powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties that can destroy fungal infections and the compounds, which those infections produce, that cause tissue damage. For skin-based infections, you can apply cinnamon oil with a little manuka honey to the affected area. Drinking cinnamon tea sweetened with organic raw honey may fight off cold or flu viruses.

Manuka Honey

Honey has been used topically on wounds for thousands of years to help prevent infection. Many health professionals agree that manuka honey can help treat burns, ulcers, bedsores, and skin grafts. The antibacterial properties in honey are typically attributed to the hydrogen peroxide content; however, manuka honey has a lower hydrogen peroxide content and can inhibit about 60 different strains of bacteria. Studies have even shown that manuka honey can kill staph infections.

Goldenseal

Usually consumed as a tea or in capsule form, goldenseal is commonly used to treat digestive or respiratory issues. In fact, recent studies found that goldenseal can help prevent staph infection. Additionally, goldenseal contains berberine, which is an important component of natural antibiotics. Warning: berberine is not safe for infants or women who are breastfeeding or pregnant. Goldenseal can also interfere with certain medications so make sure to check with you health care professional if you plan on taking it.

Oil of Oregano

Oil of oregano is the distilled extract of medicinal-grade oregano, and it is not meant for culinary use. The active compounds in oil of oregano are carvacrol and thymol, both of which help to fight of harmful pathogens. Carvacrol actually has antimicrobial effects and studies have found that it can help fight off fungal infections, allergies, inflammation, parasites, viruses, and bacterial infections. Many people have used oil of oregano to treat nail fungus, sinus infections, or yeast infections.

While prescription antibiotics have their place, it is not always necessary to consume them. Their misuse has caused people to develop antibiotic resistant bacteria in the gut. Try taking the natural approach to save your gut from unnecessary damage.

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Herbs can have a direct impact on the way you feel. Whether you are using herbs to boost your immune system, improve sleep, or combat a cold, herbs work to naturally improve your overall health. Some herbs have even been dubbed “superherbs.” Much like superfoods, superherbs aren’t typically found in your average grocery store. They aren’t usually fresh; rather, you have to get them dried or in powder form. Browse your local health food store to locate some of these!

Super Herbs: 5 Essential Medicinal Herbs

Echinacea

Echinacea is an extremely powerful immune-boosting herb. It contains antimicrobial properties and phenol compounds. It is a flower that:

• Has been used to get rid of malaria, scarlet fever, and common colds and flus.
• Sip on some Echinacea tea to soothe your sore throat or cough.

Turmeric

Turmeric? 2meric?  However you say it, this anti-inflammatory herb is commonly used in Indian food. It’s what makes the food orange…and delicious! One a more serious note, turmeric helps to:

• Well, it’s pretty damn good for everything.
• Decreases swelling, improves circulation, and helps digestion.
• The curcumin, the active ingredient, works to boost your brain health.

Valerian

Who has taken a sleeping pill to fall asleep? Now you can leave those behind because you know about Valerian. You know how Popeye ate spinach to supercharge? Think of this as the opposite. It powers you down for improved sleep. It’s awesome for people with insomnia or other sleep disorders.

Ginkgo Biloba

Did you know Ginkgo Biloba is considered a living fossil? It’s like eating a dinosaur! Okay, maybe not a dinosaur, but it does:

• Help to improve memory, circulation, and boosts energy.
• It’s like a natural pick-me-up without the caffeine crash.
• Can we let you in on a secret? It can get you going in the bedroom too.

Milk Thistle

Doesn’t this sound like something from ancient times? Well, it actually is! Since the days of pharaohs when cattle roamed… Just kidding. But really, though, it has been used for 2,000 years to treat kidney, gall bladder, and liver problems.

• It cleanses the liver of toxins, and can help you wean off antibiotics or medication.
• It also can stop cancer cells from dividing and multiplying. Pretty cool, right?

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