Echinacea

Scientific Name: Echinacea purpurea

Plant Family: Asteraceae; aster family

Part Used: Above ground parts

Actions: Alterative, lymphagogue, sialagogue, anti-inflammatory, anesthetic, (mild), blood purifier, vulnerary, immune stimulant, antimicrobial, and sialagogue

Energetics: Slightly cooling and drying

Preparations: Tea, tincture, salves, compresses, fresh petals

Cautions: Fresh juice or tincture causes throat irritation in some individuals. Allergies to aster family.

Medicinal Uses: Used for warding off colds and flu, tissue healing