- Asteraceae
- Aerial parts and root
- North American prairie
- Cut and sifted
Echinacea
Echinacea purpurea
Select sizeThe plant
Echinacea purpurea is a purple coneflower native to North America. Both root and above-ground preparations exist.
What's in it
Alkamides are natural compounds associated with the plant’s distinctive tingling taste. It also contains caffeic-acid derivatives, a group of plant chemicals.
Alkylamides
Responsible for the tingle. Concentrated in the root.
Cichoric acid
A caffeic acid derivative, highest in E. purpurea aerial parts.
Polysaccharides
Water-soluble, extracted by hot infusion.
Echinacoside
Prominent in E. angustifolia and E. pallida, minimal in purpurea.
How it works
Seasonal tradition: Echinacea is associated with supporting the body’s defences during the cold season. Body meaning: The immune system is the network of cells and tissues that recognises and responds to infections. Echinacea’s herbal reputation centres on this area of wellbeing, with the plant part and preparation shaping its use.
In the tradition
Rooted in North American Indigenous use and later Western herbal practice.
The raised centre of its flower gives it the name coneflower.
- 1Steep 1–2 tsp dried echinacea in 250ml hot water for 10–15 mins.
- 2Drink 3 cups daily at onset of illness, or 1 cup daily for prevention.
- 3Earthy, slightly spicy taste with a mild tingling sensation on the tongue — a sign of active alkylamides.
- 4Best used in cycles: 2 weeks on, 1 week off for long-term use.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Best used within 12–18 months.
- Avoid with daisy-family allergies.
- Check autoimmune conditions, immune-suppressing medicines, pregnancy and breastfeeding.
A food supplement, not a substitute for a varied diet. Speak to your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.
Common questions
How do I prepare echinacea?
Echinacea is steeped as an infusion. Steep 1–2 tsp dried echinacea in 250ml hot water for 10–15 mins. Full directions are in the How to use panel above. See also: Infusion vs decoction.
What is echinacea?
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) belongs to the Asteraceae family; the aerial parts and root are used. Origin: North American prairie. A well-known seasonal herb traditionally chosen when cold-season wellbeing is on the mind.
How should I store dried echinacea?
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Best used within 12–18 months.
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