ECHINACEA

Echinacea, the herb best known for its use in the treatment of colds and flu, is a perennial with pretty blooms through summer and autumn. It’s one of the most popular herbal remedies, used to shorten the duration of the common cold and flu, and to reduce the symptoms of sore throats, coughs and fevers. It’s perceived by some as an invaluable immune-booster and an aid for fighting infections in the body.

While there are nine species of echinacea, only three are commonly used for medicinal purposes – Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea pallida. The roots are harvested in autumn from four-year-old plants for use in teas or tinctures.

Plant in full sun in average, free-draining soil. Echinacea is reasonably drought tolerant, but plants perform better with moisture. Young plants, especially, need regular watering until established. They don’t like extremely low ph (acidic) soil conditions either. Top up with lime if your soil is acidic. Dig up the roots and cut them into 5cm-10cm long pieces. Wash them and let them dry or make tinctures from the fresh roots.