Echinacea

About Echinacea

Native American tribes used it for 400+ years before European settlers learned of it. It is one of the top-selling herbal supplements worldwide, with annual US sales over $130 million. Some clinical studies show it can reduce cold duration by 1-2 days when taken at onset. The name comes from Greek echinos (hedgehog) describing the spiny seed head. Over 9 species. It is endangered in the wild due to overharvesting. The roots, leaves, and flowers are all used medicinally. It attracts butterflies and bees. It is drought-tolerant once established. Native Americans used it for wounds, snake bites, and pain.