Echinacea. Medicinal properties and contraindications in tablets, tincture for women, children and men. How to use

The body can not always cope with winter illnesses, to help him to be taken immunostimulants, vitamins. Medicinal properties of Echinacea, as a powerful defender of the immune system, are known for a long time using preparations containing an extract from a plant, it should be remembered not only about the benefits, but also take into account contraindications.

The composition and nutritional value of Echinacea

Echinacea purpurea - a popular medicinal plant, activates and supports the protective functions of the body. It is effective as a preventive or early stages of infectious diseases, acts actively on the human body, so it must be taken with caution.

The plant is native to North America, the Indians used it for toothache, diseases of the throat, from snake bites. In alternative medicine is used Echinacea angustifolia, pallido, purple.

All of them were the first natural antibiotic. With the advent of chemical drugs of plant unjustly forgotten. The resulting antibiotic resistance in certain strains of bacteria due to a mutation resulted in the present, to the fact that Echinacea again interested.

Echinacea, medicinal properties and which contraindications long been studied, it has been applied in pharmacology due to its composition.

All kinds of plants contain:

• hydroxycinnamic acid;
• organic compounds of glycosides;
• organic acids;
• plant sterols;
• polysaccharides;
• monosaccharides;
• essential oils;
• macro and micro elements (selenium, cobalt, manganese, zinc, molybdenum).

The polysaccharides present in the ground part of the flower - the important components of the immune system. Acid contained in the plant - tsihorovaya, ferulic, tartaric - fight free radicals have antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial properties. The root part contains a high concentration of essential oils.

In 100 g edible portion of the flower contains:

nutrient	Quantity, mg	Norm mg	% Of the norm 100 g	100% of normal g
vitamins	85,66	5	1712	6
Beta-carotene
Vitamin C	232	90	257	39
macronutrients	315	2500	12,6	794
Potassium
Calcium	778	1000	77,9	129
Magnesium	119	400	29	336
Chlorine	74	2300	3,3	3110
Micronutrients	46	19	251	41
Iron
Selenium	2	56	3,7	2752
Zinc	2	13	16,8	600

The energy value of food plants ꞊ 0 kcal. As part of the plant is not fat, protein, but eat carbohydrates (polysaccharides), which stimulates the immune system.

All substances are working on increasing the activity of cellular components that stimulate the production of hormones.

In what form is sold

Echinacea is sold as a finished product or as part of additives:

• liqueurs;

  

• extract;
• tea;
• tablets;
• powder;
• dry leaves and roots;
• ointments;
• spray.

The most popular forms - tablets and tinctures. Absorbable tablet form suitable for use even in childhood, whereas tinctures, soaked in alcohol solution unacceptable for children. Each tablet contains extract of the herb and root, equivalent to 270 mg of fresh plant. Additionally, they contain magnesium stearate, starch and lactose.

Powder, dried flowers, herbal teas are prepared, they can add other herbs.

Echinacea tea is popular in uncomplicated colds, maintaining immunity. To make tea at home, it is necessary to make 2 teaspoons of the dried root of Echinacea in a teacup.

The extract produced in capsules, vials. One capsule contains typically 100 mg of active ingredient, vitamin supplements, adjuvants. When receiving the extract, -30 2 drops diluted with water, then used as appropriate. Original Extract contains an extract from the root and herb equivalent to 285 grams of fresh plant.

Tinctures, extracts containing ethanol, up to 65%, so it is better not to take people who suffer from digestive diseases. Comparison tablets and infusions showed a rapid absorption and a higher C max, associated with the infusion (0.40 ng / ml after 30 minutes) when compared with the capsules.

According to the observations of doctors has been proven that the drug is safe period should not exceed 8 weeks. Dosages single reception may be different, they can be found in the instructions.

Useful properties for the organism Echinacea

Echinacea, medicinal properties and contraindications which are proven by scientific studies, most reliable protection against colds or reduce symptoms.

It acts specifically as a prophylactic agent in the early stages of infection in infectious diseases. Especially it is useful when used prior to contacting with diseased or upon detection of the first signs of angina, influenza.

Benefits of Echinacea:

1. It strengthens the immune system. Chemical constituents of echinacea have a direct impact on the processes in the human immune system. Regular its use reduces the chance of getting a cold by 50%.
2. It has anti-inflammatory properties. For those patients who regularly suffer from bronchitis, echinacea reduces irritation and deposition of mucus in the throat. It helps diphtheria, asthma, tuberculosis. It was also observed reduction in the number of ear infections in those who are constantly using drugs with Echinacea.
3. It relieves pain. The infusion of the plant can be taken at internal pains. Ointments are used for topical application to the affected area.
4. It is used to relieve the symptoms of upper respiratory tract in acute sinusitis, Choking cough, sore throat.
5. It contributes to the prevention of cancer. It frees the body against free radicals, stimulates the immune system T cells, preventing the development of cancer cells. Echinacea is not in any way does not replace drugs against the disease. It can only be concomitant medication on doctor's advice.
6. Increases leukocyte production. Echinacea purpurea is not just stimulates T-cells, it affects the increase of white blood cells that counteract many diseases. Located in a part of the plant ehinatsein impedes the progress of bacteria and viruses in healthy cells. This means that the probability of infection of any type of infection is much reduced.
7. Reduces inflammation. The active chemical elements that are a part of the plant, reduce inflammation within the body, and outside help to overcome the effects of sunburn. A positive effect on the skin in psoriasis, eczema, open sores.
8. Heals wounds. Doctors noticed tinctures efficacy in the treatment of gingivitis, which is known, is a bacterial infection. The regular use of the drug strengthens teeth. Regenerative properties promote rapid healing of wounds on the body and in the oral cavity.
9. Controls the level of sugar. Tea with Echinacea is able to control the surge of hormones in diabetics and prevent falling in patients with hypoglycemia.
10. Enhances detoxification. The plant is considered by many doctors, it helps to cure some diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Echinacea - a diuretic, laxative and reduces gas means.
11. Care of hair. Some doctors suggest drugs containing echinacea for treatment with alopecia (loss of hair on the head and body), dandruff. Vitamins and minerals contained in the plant, prevents hair loss, due to the rapid penetration into the hair follicles.
12. It helps to relieve stress. Narrow-leaved echinacea root extract contains echinacoside having alkamidnym property. The substance acts on the brain like valium, but has no side effects and contraindications.

Medicinal properties of Echinacea are amplified due to it contains minerals and vitamins:

• B-carotene having antioksilantnymi properties involved in the creation of retinol;
• potassium, intracellular cation corrects an acidic, aqueous, electrolyte balances;
• Vitamin C helps to absorb iron, supports the immune system, active member of a redox reaction.

female

Flowers and roots of Echinacea is widely used in the treatment of women:

• candidiasis;
• gonorrhea;
• chlamydia;
• skin lesions and genital mucosa.

When disturbances in the bladder, cervix, ovaries, conservative treatment is supplemented via phytotherapy Echinacea extract. The substances contained in plants, affect the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, helping to produce hormones.

Echinacea tincture has a positive effect on the emotional woman background.

male

According to doctors, phytotherapeutists, Echinacea extract has a positive effect on the sexual sphere of men. In some cases, it reduces inflammation, inhibits the proliferation of fungi, infections and viruses. But to get involved in treatment with these colors is not necessary, as it can be suppressed testosterone.

Preparations based on echinacea often help in the treatment of:

• prostatitis;
• adenoma;
• infections, sexually transmitted diseases;
• urogenital inflammatory diseases.

Children's

In the treatment of sore throat, colds, stomatitis children recommend tinctures, decoctions, teas produced from the plant. Flowers Echinacea can cause children rash, swelling of the mouth, tongue, and possibly anaphylactic shock. The anticipated benefits from the use of echinacea in children under 12 years outweigh the potential risks.

Children older than 12 years may be given drugs to these plants at the first sign of a cold, because of their greater weight and the body's resistance and above. Good for prevention help taking a bath with a few drops of extract.

For children will suffice 15 drops (0.6 ml) tincture, diluted with warm water in a ratio of 1: 3. Decoctions, infusions take three times a day after 2 hours after a meal.

From what helps herb echinacea

Medicinal properties of Echinacea (contraindications should be taken into consideration at the reception) It occurs when making liqueur:

• to reduce the likelihood of common cold;
• to reduce the frequency and duration of cold symptoms;
• at first signs of the disease;
• to reduce the risk of upper airway reinfection;
• to reduce pain in the throat, cough.

In the study, doctors have found that the use infusions for 2 weeks, are connected Echinacea and vitamin C, decreases the likelihood of cold 58%. The normal initial dose Admission for adults - from ½ hour. l. 4 times a day. Gradually the amount of the drug is increased to 2 hours. l. Children the dose is reduced by half.

The use of tablets for 14 days to help:

• stimulate immune function;
• reduce chronic fatigue syndrome;
• improve the immune system in people with acquired immunodeficiency.

Drinking tea, broth relieves the symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections, irritation of the upper respiratory tract in the initial stage of developing the disease.

A particularly useful combination of echinacea with honey:

• migraines;
• elevated blood pressure;
• irritability;
• fatigue.

Spray containing echinacea and sage, not inferior to lidocaine efficacy in the treatment of angina. Of 154 patients tested for spray itself, occurred in 64% improvement in condition. Tea, spray broth is used 3-4 times a day after meals can help prevent gingivitis.

The combination of Echinacea with other plants:

• Ganoderma (mushroom tinder) (immune defense);
• turmeric, ginger (antiprostudnoe as a prophylactic agent);
• garlic (germs, virus protection);
• Ginseng (reduced strength, libido);
• radiogram (acting together as stimulators defenses);
• Spirulina (toxins);
• propolis (relieve fatigue, protect against infections).

Recipes funds with Echinacea

Every part of the plant - leaves, flowers, roots - contains biologically active substances. Some of them are soluble in water, others in alcohol. The best time to collect the roots of Echinacea - autumn. After harvesting the roots dried and then used to prepare the extract or tea, a tincture.

Young leaves are harvested in the spring. Flower buds are ready for use in the summer, it can be used directly after drying, or harvest for future use. The plant is familiar and accessible for collection, is known to everyone rudbeckia.

Ingredients for the preparation of the extract on alcohol:

• vodka or alcohol (40% + 60% drinking water) - to the extent of filling of dishes;
• echinacea (leaves, roots, flowers) - an amount sufficient to fill the 0.5 liter cans, but not with the horse.

How to cook:

1. Leaves of plants collected in late spring, cut and fill their free bank.
2. Pour the contents of the liquid, cover and place in a dark place. Store 6 months, occasionally shaking the jar.
3. The prepared extract of strain, discard the leaves, add the dried flowers of Echinacea, pour the resulting solution. Leave for 1 month.
4. A month later, strain and store in a dark cool place.

Tip: ready dry material taken half the norm fresh.

To make a tincture of echinacea will need:

• food alcohol, vodka;
• Dry plants - ½ cup;
• Bank of 05 liters.

Cooking method:

1. Fill jar 1/3 to ½ dry ingredient.
2. Pour boiling water (3-4 tablespoons. l. to slightly dampening the grass).
3. Fill the remaining space with alcohol and mix.
4. Cover, stored in a dark cool, dry place (but not in the refrigerator) for at least 3 weeks. Occasionally shake.
5. Ready solution strain and used as needed.

The infusion can be made on the basis of vegetable glycerin. It is considered a poor solvent, but since there is no alcohol, the recipe is suitable for children. Preparations on the glycerin is absorbed slowly by 30% alcohol. They are absorbed by glycogen in the liver and do not greatly affect blood sugar levels.

What is needed for infusions on glycerol:

• glass jar, 0.5 l;
• 3-4 tablespoons boiling water. l .;
• glycerin vegetable food;
• dried herbs.

Cooking method:

1. Fill the jar from 1/2 to 1/3 of dried grass.
2. Pour boiling water (this step is optional, but it helps to open up the plant).
3. Fill the bowl ¾ of glycerin, stir.
4. Close the lid and leave for 6-8 weeks, shaking occasionally.
5. At the end of cooking, drain the solution poured into a dark bottle and kept in a dry place.

Another method of preparation:

1. After the previous recipe points 1-3 to put the bank in multivarku previously laid on the bottom of a dry cloth or a silicone mat.
2. Fill the container with water Multivarki, covering the jar on ¾. Cover in this case is not used.
3. Enable multivarku the low mode (available yogurts cooking mode).
4. Leave languish in 12 hours by adding water as needed.
5. At the end of time, drain the broth, then be used for other purposes.

Decoctions and extracts to glycerin contain more sugar and sweeter than conventional tinctures. By Echinacea flowers can add other dried herbs.

A decoction of the roots:

1. The dry crushed root (1 tbsp. l.) Pour hot water (350 mL) and bring to boil.
2. Hold at low heat for 30 minutes.
3. Cool, strain, pour into a dark bottle or dish.

Of echinacea root, you can get the juice, used in wound healing. The colors contained - 18% juice, the leaves - 10-11% radically - 505 reviver. The greatest amount of juice in the plant accumulates in the fall.

Cooking process:

1. With the first frost dig plant, to separate the upper part from the rhizomes.
2. Fresh, peeled roots washed in boiling water, wet towel and grind in a coffee grinder.
3. Lay the roots 100 g in 0.5 liter jar with honey.
4. Stir as possible and put in the refrigerator.

The product can be stored for 1-2 years. Extract from the can when necessary clean dry spoon.

Damage contraindications

Echinacea (medicinal properties and its contraindications should be discussed with a doctor before use) especially cautious taken for chronic diseases.

Warnings for use:

1. Plant affect the operation of chemotherapy drugs such as etoposide.
2. Doctors do not recommend acceptance of echinacea for people with diseases of the lymphatic system, because of its blocking action on certain medications.
3. Pregnancy and breast advisable to consult a physician before use.
4. Doctors do not recommend taking echinacea as a drug to suppress the immune system.
5. Age 12 years is contraindicated for the reception.

When used properly, the plant does not cause side effects in most people. The excess often causes diarrhea, vomiting, dry mouth. May cause allergies in those who react to ragweed, linden flowers. Often allergies manifested not the flowers themselves, and to components that are added to the drug.

How to store echinacea

All pharmacies and home-cooked food based on Echinacea, stored in dark places in order to avoid loss of alkylamides and phenols. Better use of pharmacy bottles of dark color.

There are many therapeutic properties Echinacea, but currently the most convincing result is shown as a prophylactic agent in viral infections of the upper respiratory tract. Through self-treatment, do not forget about contraindications for use.

Author: Anna Belyaeva

Registration of the article: Mila Friedan

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