Echinacea Purpurea

Echinacea purpurea is an immune system stimulating herb that has had much press in recent years. Touted as a wonder herb, it is reputed to help in fighting everything from the common cold to cancer. It seems like this wonder herb should be scarce or rarely found but it is in fact quite easy to grow from Echinacea seeds right in your own garden!

Echinacea purpurea is native to the US and was in fact used by Native Americans long before Europeans came along. The plant, sometimes known as purple coneflower, is a daisy like plant with purple petals that point downward and resembles a black eyed susan. Echinacea seeds can be planted in any garden and you might be surprised to find it is already growing in your yard or along your street!

Echinacea seeds are easy to grow. The plant blooms from July to September and grows to about 3 feet with large 4" blooms. Echinacea purpurea is beautiful to look at and will attract the monarch butterfly. It prefers a sunny spot but requires minimal care and makes a wonderful cut flower! Echinacea seeds should be planted in spring or fall.

This beautiful flower can be taken in pill, tincture or tea form and at the onset of a cold or flu. It is thought to give your immune system a little boost to help you fight off these ailments, but it is not wise to take it every day. Just a little bit when you feel like your immune system needs some help. If you have allergies to daisies, you may want to avoid this herb and, of course, anyone contemplating use of Echinacea purpurea should consult their doctor.

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