Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) — FarmPal
One of the most popular immune-boosting herbs. Native to North America with beautiful purple flowers.
A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis confirmed efficacy in reducing duration and severity of upper respiratory infections in children. Adult evidence is mixed but leans positive for early-onset use. Most benefit seen in the first 24-48 hours of symptoms.
- Clinical Nutrition ESPEN 2025;67:702-713
- Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024
- NCCIH Echinacea Fact Sheet 2024
Medicinal Properties
Parts Used
Traditional Uses
- •Cold and flu prevention and treatment
- •Upper respiratory infections
- •Wound healing and skin infections
- •Boosting overall immune function
- •Reducing inflammation
Preparations
Fill jar 1/3 with fresh root or 1/2 with dried root. Cover with 80-proof vodka. Shake daily for 4-6 weeks. Strain and bottle.
Dosage: 30-60 drops, 3 times daily at onset of cold
Steep 1-2 tsp dried herb in 8 oz boiling water for 15-20 minutes. Can use flowers, leaves, or dried root.
Dosage: 3 cups daily during acute illness
For those avoiding alcohol. Use vegetable glycerin instead of vodka. Takes 6-8 weeks.
Dosage: 1 tsp, 3 times daily
Harvesting Guide
Timing: Roots: fall of second year or early spring. Flowers/leaves: when in full bloom.
Method: Dig roots with a fork, wash thoroughly. Cut flowers with stems when fully open.
Drying: Slice roots thinly and dry at 95-100°F. Dry flowers whole or petals separated.
⚠️ Cautions
- •May cause allergic reactions in those allergic to ragweed family
- •Use for short periods (2-3 weeks on, 1 week off)
- •Not recommended during pregnancy without professional guidance
- •May interact with immunosuppressant medications