Immunostimulant, antimicrobial

Tinctures, decoctions, dried and powdered root, direct feeding of fresh plant

Echinacea helps to stimulate the immune system due to the combination of its acid constituents and polysaccharide constituents, which both possess strong immunostimulatory properties. It stimulates the rate at which macrophages remove bacteria, and increases the vulnerability of microbes to antibodies. It also stimulates the lymph system to increase waste drainage.

Echinacea is also a good antimicrobial for the mouth and urinary tract, useful for treating infections of the bladder and urethra.

Echinacea also can be used as a snakebite remedy when used both externally and internally.

For treating infection, give the herb at the first onset of infectious symptoms. Low-alcohol glycerin extracts are best, because the glycerin helps mask the flavour of the herb. Give 12-25 drops of the tincture 3 times daily. Give the plant for 5-10 days, then allow a 2-3 day break to prevent tolerance from building up.

For relieving pain and swelling of insect bites and stings, apply the herb as a clay poultice.

• Echinacea should not be used in animals with abnormally functioning immune systems.

Wulff-Tilford, Mary, and Gregory L. Tilford. All You Ever Wanted to Know About Herbs for Pets. Irvine, CA: BowTie, 1999. Print.

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