4oz bag
Choose Angustifolia or Purpurea
Echinacea is a well-known herb used primarily for its immune-boosting properties, and it comes in several species, with Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea purpurea being the most prominent.
While both Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea purpurea offer valuable health benefits, they differ significantly in physical characteristics, growing conditions, active compounds, and traditional uses.
Choosing between them depends on individual health needs:
For chronic issues or deeper immune support, consider using E. angustifolia.
For acute respiratory infections or general immune stimulation, E. purpurea may be more suitable.
The key difference lies in their chemical composition:
- Echinacea angustifolia typically produces higher concentrations of alkamides, which are responsible for many of its medicinal effects.
- Echinacea purpurea contains a different balance of compounds, including more polysaccharides known for their immune-enhancing properties.
Immune System Benefits
- E. angustifolia is particularly effective for chronic conditions requiring deep immune support.
- E. purpurea is recognized as an immune stimulant that enhances immune function and treats acute infections like colds or flu.
Traditional Uses
Historically:
- Native Americans primarily used Echinacea angustifolia, valuing it for its broad range of applications including pain relief and wound healing.
- While both species have been used for similar purposes today, many herbalists prefer using both together to benefit from their unique strengths.
Organically Grown
Organic foods are grown on land that has been free from the use of synthetic fertilizers, growth regulators, insecticides or herbicides for at least three years. Before a product can be labeled Certified Organic, farmers and processors must meet certain requirements.