It has sharp spines that look like a stiff comb or an angry hedgehog. Of nine species, three are used medicinally, which vary in appearance from the intensity of petal color to the stiff or drooping way the petals encircle the seed head. Polysaccharides are known to trigger cells in the body that fight infection. Available Forms Extracts, tinctures, tablets, capsules, ointments, and stabilized fresh extracts are available. How to Take It Echinacea's immune stimulant actions reduce inflammation and help the body fight bacteria and viruses.
Tests show that echinacea stimulates immune system cells into action.
When these cells are activated, white blood cells are more ready to wrap themselves around illness-causing invaders and to move viruses or bacteria out of your system, prevent them from reproducing themselves, or simply stop their activity. While many individuals choose to take echinacea on a daily basis during the winter to help prevent colds and flu, studies have not consistently shown that this type of use is effective. On the other hand, echinacea can reduce the length of time that you have a cold or the flu. For general immune system stimulation, during colds, flu, upper respiratory tract infection, or bladder infection, choose from the following forms and take three times a day. For arthritis, take 15 drops daily of a standardized extract produced by a reputable manufacturer.