Medicinal plant

Echinacea

Echinacea purpurea

A classic fresh-root tincture for cold onset. Also called Purple Coneflower, Coneflower.

Immunomodulatory/immunostimulant in traditional Western herbal practice, most commonly used at the beginning of respiratory infections. NCCIH reports evidence suggesting echinacea may modestly improve cold symptoms, but the evidence quality is low to moderate and effects vary by species and preparation. Root is the classic concentrated medicine; flowers and leaves may also be used.

Properties

Immune stimulant — Traditionally stimulates aspects of immune response

Lymphatic — Traditionally supports lymph flow and lymphatic function

Energetics
Cooling Drying Stimulating
Take care Aster-family allergy is possible.
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea), historical botanical illustration

Growing and using it

Life cycle

Herbaceous perennial.

What to buy

Straight-species purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) seed or plant.

Best way to start

Seed, plug, or potted plant.

Seed starting

Start indoors after a period of cold-moist stratification for more reliable germination, or fall/winter sow outdoors.