Echinacea: Elk Medicine

Spotlight on a Plant Ally

Echinacea Spp.

With nine species of echinacea native to North America, this powerful ally has been used extensively for thousands of years. Commonly known as purple cornflower, echinacea may currently be the most popular herbal remedy in the world. This immune-system booster works by increasing macrophage T-cell activity, strengthening the body's first line of defense against colds, flues, and other illnesses. Ute folklore credits the discovery of the plant's medicinal quality to observing wounded or sick elk digging up the root to eat, hence it's name "elk root."

In the late 1800s, H.C.F. Meyer marketed "Meyers Blood Purifier," an echinacea-based tonic. To prove its efficacy as an antidote, he famously offered to let himself be bitten by rattlesnakes in front of witnesses while using the herb as his only defense. This is where the term "snake oil's salesman" comes from!! 

It is used today in creams and ointments to treat skin conditions like eczema, acne, and minor wounds due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is safe for children and the elderly (though people with leukemia should not take this herb). Because it stimulates the immune system, those with autoimmune disorders or those taking immunosuppressants should consult a doctor before use.

High-quality echinacea (especially the root) often causes a distinct tingling or numbing sensation on the tongue. This is caused by alkylamides, one of the plant's primary active constituents.  We sell fresh echinacea tincture and glycerite( see below) and it makes a fine tea. If you grow it in your garden, you can channel your inner elk and brake off and chew a small (1-2 gram) piece of the root. Take echinacea in frequent small doses to boost immunity at the first sign of a cold or flue or to treat a bronchial infection. It loses efficacy if used continuously, so it's best to use it in cycles, generally 5 days on, 2 days off, until the illness has corrected itself. 

Due to its popularity, wild Echinacea has been overharvested. It's best to use only cultivated sources to protect wild populations.