Echinacea / Purple Coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia & A purpurea (pictured )

Used traditionally for a wide range of acute and chronic infections, from boils and abscesses to septicaemia. It can be used for impetigo, childhood diseases like chickenpox, mastitis and epidemic influenza among many others.

Echinacea is an excellent remedy for tonsillitis, both internally and as a gargle. A fresh root tincture is regarded as the most effective preparation and as Echinacea is very non-toxic it can be taken frequently in quite large doses to good effect. The best quality preparations should leave a tingling sensation on the tongue. It can be useful for people who have chronic diseases of the lung or diabetes to take a course of Echinacea in low doses over the winter to help prevent infections.

Caution: If a condition is potentially serious it should be treated by or in conjunction with a qualified medical herbalist or your GP.