Immunomodulatory/immunostimulant in traditional Western herbal practice, most commonly used at the beginning of respiratory infections. NCCIH reports evidence suggesting echinacea may modestly improve cold symptoms, but the evidence quality is low to moderate and effects vary by species and preparation. Root is the classic concentrated medicine; flowers and leaves may also be used.
Medicinal plant
Echinacea
Echinacea purpurea
A classic fresh-root tincture for cold onset. Also called Purple Coneflower, Coneflower.
Uses
Respiratory — Herbs traditionally used in preparations for the throat, chest, sinuses, or seasonal respiratory comfort.
Properties
Immune stimulant — Traditionally stimulates aspects of immune response
Lymphatic — Traditionally supports lymph flow and lymphatic function
Energetics
Cooling — Calms heat, irritation, or excess activity. Drying — Reduces excess moisture or secretions. Stimulating — Encourages activity, movement, or circulation.
Aster-family allergy is possible.
Similar herbs: Bee Balm, Elderberry, Self-Heal
Growing and using it
Life cycle
Herbaceous perennial.
Hardiness
Echinacea purpurea is hardy in USDA Zones 3–8.
How to start
Seed, plug, or potted plant. Choose Echinacea purpurea.
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Starting from seed
Cold-moist stratification improves seed germination.
Harvesting
Harvest aerial parts during bloom; wait until plants are mature before digging roots.
Grow in zone
Start indoors — Sow under cover in trays or pots, before it is warm enough to sow outsideStart indoors: MarchStart indoors: AprilDirect sow — Sow straight into the ground where the plant will growDirect sow: AprilDirect sow: MayDirect sow: OctoberDirect sow: NovemberPlant out — Move a started plant into its final spot outdoorsPlant out: MayPlant out: JuneHarvest leaves — Gather leaves in these monthsHarvest leaves: JulyHarvest leaves: AugustHarvest leaves: SeptemberHarvest flowers — Gather flowers in these monthsHarvest flowers: JulyHarvest flowers: AugustHarvest flowers: SeptemberHarvest roots — Gather roots in these monthsHarvest roots: SeptemberHarvest roots: OctoberHarvest roots: November
Root harvest is destructive; wait until plants are well established.
Gardening tools
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Soak echinacea in alcohol for several weeks to make a concentrated, shelf-stable extract. A classic preparation, because fresh root is pungent and active.
Parts used
RootPrepare
- Dig mature root in fall
- Wash extremely well and chop finely
- Place in a clean jar and use a reputable echinacea-specific fresh-root tincture ratio
- Macerate about 4 weeks
- Press and strain
Apothecary supplies
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