'Tis the season for sore throats and sinus congestion, if you forgot to take your Echinacea. People with a strong immune system are able to fight off the common cold...but for the rest of us, we need a little support if we want to bypass the sniffles.

Echinacea, also known as purple cone flower, was first used as a medicinal by the Plains Indians. Over time, drugs began to take the place of nature's herbal gifts. Over-prescription has caused some drugs to lose their effectiveness on some microorganisms. People are rediscovering Echinacea more than ever before.

The reason Echinacea works so well is due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Echinacea can protect our bodies against pathogenic invasion when the polysacharrides surround tissue cells. As well, these polysaccharides stimulate macrophage tissue cells that destroy foreign organisms.

Echinacea purifies the blood and lymphatic system and can speed up wound healing. Echinacea is also effective against respiratory infections, allergies, boils, insect bites and acne. This powerful herb can be used in capsule form, as a tincture or as tea. The tincture form tends to be absorbed in the blood stream quicker than capsule, if quick relief is sought. Those who do not have any cold symptoms and are taking Echinacea for preventative reasons, may prefer capsule form.

Echinacea should not be taken for too long as it may over-stimulate the immune response. Those who have an auto-immune disease should consult a physician before taking Echinacea. It is best taken for two weeks, then take a break for one week and then returning again to two weeks. This pattern gives your immune system a sufficient break.

Echinacea may be just what you are missing. Let the power of Echinacea help you to achieve your personal best this year.

See Echinacea in the Catalogue.