The question ‘Does echinacea work for immune system’ has been around for quite a while. A lot of people have claimed that they have experienced the health benefits, but experts and scientists still need more scientific proof. Regardless the claim, echinacea has been used for centuries as medicines by the Native Americans. They believe that it’s potent to treat sore throats, cold, and even snake bites.
Despite the proven benefits, is it true that echinacea can improve your immune system? If you consume it regularly, will it make any difference to your well being and health?
Does Echinacea Work for Immune System: What Is Echinacea?
You are probably more familiar with the word coneflower, which refers to the purple flowers easily found in North American’s fields or woods. It’s included within the daisy family. The flower is popular because it’s believed to fight off colds and boost the immune system.
Today, the plant is still used as the main ingredient for dietary supplement, such as creams, juices, teas, and pill forms. It’s believed that the plant contains two important chemicals that are responsible for the health perks: glycoproteins and polysaccharides.
The Benefits
A lot of people believe that echinacea can deliver these great benefits, including:
- It can strengthen your immune system, so you won’t be overly prone to flu or cold.
- It can fight off infections, like ear infection, urinary tract infection, or respiratory tract infection.
- It can treat eczema, which is a skin inflammation.
- It may reduce inflammation.
A Little Warning
The plant is basically safe, but then again, you can’t really be sure about one’s condition or their unique traits. Some people are reported to experience liver injury, which is quite rare. Those who are allergic to daisy (and its family) should avoid consuming or using this plant.
In general, you should stop consuming the plant when you experience these signs:
- Nausea
- Dark urine
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
Pregnant or breastfeeding moms should also avoid consuming it. If they are really interested, they can talk to their doctors. But in general, don’t consume or use it. People with these conditions must not take the plant too:
- Allergies
- Kidney issues
- Tuberculosis
- Cancer
- Autoimmune problems
- Diabetes
- Lung issues (or any breathing problem)
- Liver disorders
- Leukemia
- Multiple sclerosis
All in all, it’s a must that you talk to your doctor before taking anything. They would be the one that can provide suggestion. They are also the one that can monitor your condition. Moreover, your doctor would be the one that can suggest the right dosage for your consumption.
How to Take It
As it was stated before, echinacea is available in different forms, like creams, herbs, or tea. If you are interested in making the tea, it’s easier to use the flowers, leaves, or roots.
- Boil the water. 5 minutes would be enough.
- Add a gram of echinacea product.
- Let it be for around 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea and consume it when it’s warm enough.
It’s also possible to consume the supplements, but discuss it with your doctor. They can provide suggestion of which kind of supplement to take. The supplements are readily available from licensed retailer or at the drugstore.
Conclusion
Echinacea may deliver a lot of benefits, but you still need to tread it carefully. If you ever wonder does echinacea work for immune system, now you know the facts.
