Echinacea Purpurea (4% Phenolic Compounds)

History and Uses:
Echinacea Purpurea is native to North America and is currently cultivated in the United States and Europe. It is also one of the most popular herbs in use today in both North America and Europe. Echinacea's name is derived from a Greek word, meaning "hedgehog," referring to the sharp pointed bracts of the receptacles, giving the herb one

of its many common names. Echinacea Purpurea has been used for hundreds of years.

It was first used in Native American "sweat lodges" to help the participants endure extreme temperatures. Echinacea was introduced into United States medical practice in 1887 and was touted for use in conditions ranging from colds to syphilis. The herb was a popular medicine in America during the 1920s, but then fell into disuse with the introduction of sulfa drugs. Modern research into the herb's immune system benefits started in Germany, and

it is interesting to note that the bulk of medical research into the herb's health effects has been conducted in Europe. With natural antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, Echinacea Purpurea is best know for its ability to kick-start the immune system, stimulating the production of white blood cells. Echinacea Purpurea contains iron, iodine, copper, sulphur, potassium and vitamins A, E and C. Echinacea also contains polysaccharides, resembling bacteria, which are thought to motivate healthy white blood cells to attack bacterial invaders. Echinacea offers the body an overall feeling of well being, and for this reason, extensive studies of Echinacea continue today. Contributing to the body's natural ability to fight infection, Echinacea is commonly referred to as the natural antibiotic and used to combat infections caused by common colds and flu. Echinacea may also be used for reducing inflammation caused by respiratory problems, bronchitis, strep throat and enlarged prostate glands. Echinacea also has fat-soluble flavonoids, luteolin, Quercetin and Rutin. Also present are potent free radical scavengers, which are said to protect the skin from sun damage. The high-molecular-weight polysaccharide fractions are believed to be involved in stimulating the immune response.