Back in June, we reported on scientific evidence showing that Echinacea is the best thing for the common cold. As well as colds, Echinacea can also be used to combat coughs, bronchitis, upper respiratory tract infections and some inflammatory conditions.
But how do we maxmise the impact of Echinacea? WDDTY's online service, Proof!, makes the following recommendations:
To obtain maximum benefit, take Echinacea
as early as possible (Curr Med Res Opin, 1999; 15: 214-27; J Altern
Complement Med, 2000; 6: 327-34). Although not much in the way of
therapeutic dosages has yet been established, according to Melvyn
Werbach (Botanical Influences on Health, Third Line Press, 1994), the
following dosages are recommended three times daily:
- Dried root (or as tea) 0.5-1 g
- Freeze-dried plant 325-650 mg
- Juice of aerial portion of Echinacea purpurea in 22 per cent ethanol 1-2 mL
- Tincture (1:4) 2-4 mL (1-2 tsp)
- Fluid extract (1:1) 1-2 mL (0.5-1 tsp)
- Solid (dry powder) extract (6.5:1 or 3.5 per cent echinacoside) 100-250 mg
Proof! is an online service that tests alternative and eco products to see which ones give you the best value for your money. And, to give you an idea of what this service can do for you, we have made our report on 'The best Echinacea supplement' available to sample for free, with no obligations. Just
click here to read this free report.