How to Use Echinacea

How to Use Echinacea

Echinacea is available in capsules containing a powder of the dried plant or root, and also as a tincture (an alcohol-based preparation). In some cases, people drink pressed juice from fresh plants. For treating skin conditions, special preparations containing pressed juice are used.

Echinacea is most effective when used aggressively - a dose on an empty stomach every few hours (along with vitamin C which also helps fight infection). The suggested dosage of Echinacea depends on which species and which parts of the plant were used. In general, it should not be used for more than 1-2 weeks because it can lose its impact over time. It is usually suggested that people alternate between taking it for 10-20 days, then stopping for a week or so, then taking it for another 10-20 days. Some people do this as a preventative strategy throughout the cold and flu season.

Here are a few ways to use Echinacea:

To improve immunity to infections: Take Echinacea pills, tablets, lozenges, or liquids in the recommended dosages (for up to two weeks). Be advised that Echinacea should not be taken for long periods of time because the herb can over-stimulate the immune system.
To treat lesions and fever blisters: Apply a cotton swab dipped in pressed Echinacea juice on the affected area.
To help kill germs and reduce inflammation on abrasions, insect bites, and burns: Apply a cotton compress soaked in one part Echinacea juice and two parts water to the infected area.
For Gingivitis: after brushing, rinse mouth with Echinacea tea (up to three times a day), or place two to three drops of Echinacea liquid extract on a toothbrush and brush into gum line (up to three times a day).

Note: be sure to check with your doctor or health care provider to determine the correct dosage for you.