The species of high quality echinacea angustifolia benefits

Little is known about the toxicity of echinacea. Animal studies generally indicate low toxicity.
There are at least 9 species of high quality echinacea angustifolia benefits . Those most commonly used medicinally are E. purpurea , E. pallida , and E. angustifolia . Echinacea is native to the United States, specifically Kansas, Nebraska, and Missouri. Because of confusion regarding the identification of echinacea species, much of the early European research conducted on this plant, particularly E. angustifolia , may have been conducted on E. pallida . E. angustifolia and E. purpurea are perennial herbs with narrow leaves and stout stems that grow from 90 cm to 1.2 m in height that blossom as a single lavender or purple flower head. When chewed, the plant imparts a pungent taste and causes tingling of the lips and tongue. History High quality purple coneflower plant is a popular herbal remedy in the United States. The plant was used in traditional medicine by American Indians and quickly adopted by settlers. During the 1800s, claims for the curative properties of the plant ranged from blood purification to treatment of dizziness and rattlesnake bites. During the early part of the 20th century, extracts of the plant were used as anti-infectives; however, the use of these products fell out of favor after the discovery of modern antibiotics. The plant and its extracts continue to be used topically for wound healing and internally to stimulate the immune system. Chemistry
There is general agreement that no single chemical constituent is responsible for echinacea's biological activity. 3 , 7 Most studies indicate that the lipophilic fraction of the root and leaves contains the most potent immunostimulating components. 7 Many alkamides, predominantly isobutylamides, have been described. 8 Caffeic acid glycosides and esters (eg, echinacoside, cynarin, cichoric acid) are found in the root and aerial parts of the plants, but echinoside is not found in E. purpurea .Polysaccharides have been identified in E. purpurea aerial parts and E. pallida root.
The alkamides found in echinacea are available following oral administration, whereas the caffeic acid derivatives are not. The pungent component of the plant is echinacein, an isobutylamide.Depending on the species, the essential oil obtained from the root may be high in unsaturated alkyl ketones or isobutylamides.
Uses and Pharmacology