Echinacea
The key to being able to use herbs effectively, is keeping it simple.
It is easy to be over-whelmed with all the different herbs and their usage.
Echinacea, is a big, strange word for a 3 foot tall, pretty, purple flower. The common name for Echinacea is “Cone flower.”
Echinacea is very effective in enhancing the immune system. It is slower than antibiotics but very effective in fighting infection.
The seed is easily found in flower seed catalogs. It is a perennial, which means once you plant it, you can expect to see it every year there- after. It’s roots multiply each year and will need to be divide every year or so—which is a blessing since the root is the most useful part. It will take a couple of years to get a substantial enough root system to not be damaged when you harvest the roots. But, the investment in good heath is worth the wait.
The Cone flower contains a chemical called hyaluronic acid that strengthens tissues against assault by invading micro-organisms. It is also effective against herpes and influenza. It is a wonderful help to a mother whose child has chronic ear ache or colds. It has proven so effective it is currently being used with AIDS patients to boost their immune system. It should not be used as a regular, daily supplement. Use it only when there is a reason to boost the immune system.
You can dry and grind the root, then put it into capsules -- which you can buy. Or, a simple tea can be simmered for immediate use. Tinctures are made by soaking the diced root 1/3 to 2/3 in a rum base or apple vinegar or by adding 1/3 herb to 2/3 food grade glycerin in a quart jar and water bath on low heat for 3 days.
Before you use herbs, you need to study and know what you are doing, Herbs should be treated with respect. Herb books from your local library are your best source of information on how to grow and use herbs.
For a free infomational catalogue containing herb lists and prices, visit www.bulkherbstore.com or write a request to The Bulk Herb Store, 1010 Pearl Road, Pleasantville, TN 37033.
The Bulk Herb Store is not affiliated with No Greater Joy. DO NOT send herbal questions or orders to No Greater Joy.
