The best Echinacea supplement

Birdseye — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 15:27:00 GMT

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.

Birdseye: Health Tips from the Blogosphere : bronchitis

The best Echinacea supplement