Echinacea
Scientific Name: Echinacea purpurea
Botanical and Historical Origin
Native to the central and eastern United States. Known by Plains tribes as 'Sampson Root'.
Evolution of Historical Use
Adopted by the Eclectic medical movement in the late 19th century after learning of its use from the Meyer's Blood Purifier patent medicine.
Traditional Cultivation and Harvesting
Grown as an ornamental and medicinal perennial. Harvest roots of 3-year-old plants in autumn. Flowers and seeds also contain active alkylamides.
Historical Medicinal Profile
Historical Internal Use
immune stimulation, infection fighting
Historical External Use
snake bites, infected wounds (historical)
Safety and Modern Toxicology
May interact with immunosuppressants. Asteraceae allergy possible.
Circular Codex References
This ingredient is also documented in our livestock-focused Plant Codex, where you can find detailed information on its identification, veterinary safety, and farmstead management.
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