Winter Colds and Flu: The Use of Echinacea as a Treatment Alternative

Each year, millions of Americans suffer from winter colds and influenza. With strains of influenza and common colds resistant to antibiotics and antiviral medications, many sufferers are left to search for alternative forms of treatment. When considering methods for an immune system boost, to improve flu and cold symptoms, consider the use of the natural herb Echinacea. Understanding the origin and various health benefits of Echinacea, the dosing recommendations, side effects and contraindications of Echinacea, may ensure a more pleasant and healthy winter flu and cold season.

Echinacea, in terms of medicinal use, dates back well over 400 years ago. Before the discovery of antibiotics, Echinacea was the most common medicinal therapy prescribed for conditions ranging from influenza to scarlet fever and even malaria. Echinacea is believed to boost the immune system by activating all immune responses within the body. In fact, studies have shown, after five days of use, Echinacea provides up to a 120 percent improvement in disease related symptoms, such as the flu and common cold. Known for the anti-inflammatory affect, Echinacea is commonly recommended for treating skin conditions and will relieve nasal passage pain and headaches associated with the flu and common cold.

When taking Echincea, it is important to purchase a product from a well known manufacturer. General dosing is based on adult recommendations however, Echinacea can be used in children. For dosing in children, simply modify the dose to the percentage of the adult weight dosing. For oral Echinacea therapeutic affects, when treating the flu and common cold, it is recommended one to two grams of dried root or herb be passed through hot water into a tea and consumed three to five times per day. Extract solutions can be purchased, and mixed with hot water, in two to three milliliter servings. Classified as a Class 1 safety rating, by the American Herbal Products Association, Echinacea is considered highly effective and safe in the treatment of most illness and disorders, especially in flu and common colds. Although not shown to cause birth defects, Echinacea use should be cleared by the obstetrician for all pregnant women.

As an immune booster, in the winter, many Americans will use Echinacea to ward off the flu and common cold viruses. While studies show this to be slightly effective, users of Echinacea are warned not to exceed continual use of Echinacea for more than eight consecutive weeks. Additionally, individuals suffering from the common cold or the flu, in addition to other immune response conditions, should not use Echinacea. Immune response disorders such as HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment, leukemia, diabetes and even multiple sclerosis provide for a regimented treatment program which could be impaired by the use of Echinacea. When in doubt, consult a physician.

While Echinacea does not necessary taste pleasant, the health implications, from daily use, for at least five days, may be significant to alleviate flu and cold symptoms. For individuals suffering from the flu or common cold this winter season, the ability to return to daily living activities, more promptly, far outweighs the slight bitter taste of Echinacea tea. To promote an increase in healthy immune response this winter, visit your local herbalist for information regarding Echinacea products.