The Forager's Journal

Echinacea is a powerful and beneficial herb used by people around the world to maintain good health. Every part of the plant, from the roots to the flower petals, is bursting with vital nutrients. With a reputation as a natural cold remedy, many people enjoy echinacea in one form or another, whether as a tea, a supplement, or even the raw plant. Here, we'll look at ten impressive ways echinacea can support your health.   What Is Echinacea? A flowering plant native to North America, Echinacea purpurea has dotted the American landscape in one form or another for thousands of years. Initially prized by the Native American Sioux as a remedy for snakebites, colic, and infections, it went on to become a wellness staple until the advent of antibiotics. Today, echinacea remains one of America’s most beloved and widely used herbs. Natural cold remedies, cough drops, and organic supplements all cite echinacea as a key ingredient. Like other herbs, the health benefits of echinacea are owed to its diverse makeup of nutrients, which includes polysaccharides, alkylamides, flavonoids, polyphenols, vitamin C, selenium, and zinc.   10 Health Benefits of Echinacea Americans spend millions of dollars on echinacea supplements every year to support their health. With a long history of therapeutic use, there is a treasure trove of research to support its popularity.   1. Boosts the Immune System Echinacea can have a powerful impact on the immune system; over 14 clinical trials have confirmed its ability to encourage good health all year long. Other studies show echinacea to be among the most effective supplements for seasonal wellness.   2. Reduces Redness & Swelling Systemic swelling, redness, and discomfort in the body can have multiple sources, from an unhealthy diet to strenuous exercise. Consuming echinacea or applying skin care products that contain echinacea essential oil can help reduce and alleviate tissue irritation.   3. Promotes the Health of Cells Consuming echinacea promotes the health of protective cells in your body. Many of the compounds in echinacea support immune cells and encourage healthy cell growth.   4. Facilitates Oxygen Transport Echinacea may improve oxygen levels in the blood. Echinacea increases erythropoietin production in the bone marrow. This, in turn, promotes red blood cell production and increases the capacity of the blood to transport oxygen.   5. Supports Oral Health Echinacea has been evaluated in combination with other herbs like sage and lavender and found to reduce bad breath. It's believed this effect is partly due to echinacea's ability to neutralize the harmful organisms that cause bad breath.   6. Alleviates Physical Discomfort Native Americans used echinacea to reduce aches and pains. Today, research has shown its potential for promoting comfort following surgery.   7. Encourages Normal Skin Health Echinacea supports a normal complexion by helping to discourage blemishes and irritation. Other studies found that it helps hydrate the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.   8. Promotes Upper Respiratory Health Echinacea is among the best herbs for supporting upper respiratory health, even in children. One double-blind placebo-controlled study found that air travel passengers who took echinacea tablets before and during a flight experienced fewer respiratory issues.   9. Provides Antioxidants Echinacea is a source of antioxidants like vitamin C, beta-carotene, flavonoids, selenium, and zinc. One study found that a particular echinacea tincture had more antioxidant activity than Gingko biloba.   10. Supports Normal Aging Although human research is necessary for confirmation, studies suggest that echinacea could offer anti-aging potential. In one study, supplemental echinacea was attributed to helping extend the lifespan of aging mice.     Using Echinacea Echinacea supplements are available in many forms. If you have access to the plant itself, you can make a pure, organic tea which doubles as an incredible herbal remedy.    Echinacea Tea Below is an easy recipe for echinacea tea. Make sure only to use organic or wildcrafted echinacea that's free of pesticides. For flavor, you can add natural sweeteners like honey, but I prefer it unsweetened. Heat 8 to 16 ounces of distilled or filtered water over medium to high heat. Add a mixture of flowers, roots, and leaves. Cover with a lid, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 15 minutes. Strain and enjoy hot or cold! Side Effects & Precautions   Echinacea is generally considered safe. However, people who are sensitive to pollen should exercise caution. Echinacea comes from the same family of plants as daisies, marigolds, and ragweed. Some common side effects of pollen exposure include dizziness, dry mouth, and mild nausea. While it is a favorite herb taken by many women, more research is needed to determine its safety for expectant or breastfeeding mothers. Before you try echinacea yourself, consult with your trusted health care provider.   Echinacea & Your Health   If you are looking for an echinacea supplement to enhance or support your health, then choose carefully. Only buy echinacea supplements from a trusted supplier who can provide organic options that are free of harmful chemicals, additives, or sweeteners.

Best Reviews, a reader-supported online publication, tested more than 30 organic mouthwashes and Essential Oxygen was voted "best of the best! From the article: "There are many options to choose from when it comes to organic mouthwashes. Some of these, such as the Essential Oxygen BR Organic Brushing Rinse, can also help you get that pearly white smile. "Bottom Line: This organic mouthwash whitens gum pockets, reduces tooth sensitivity and much more. "Pros: Certified organic and does not contain alcohol, glycerin, sodium lauryl sulfate, or fluoride. Delivers whiter teeth and fresher breath faster than ever before."  Best Reviews is a reader-supported online publication whose goal is to be "your one-stop shop for comprehensive, in-depth product reviews." Their mission is to simplify purchase decisions and to "take the search out of your research."