As herbs go Echinacea must rank amongst one of the most attractive, especially when seen as a field-full of the tall cone shaped purple-mauve flowers – and with increasing demand for this valuable plant that’s becoming a common sight on sandy soils in more and more farms in Europe.

Native to the central United States, Europeans first met this plant as a horticultural garden ornamental called Rudbeckia purpurea and grew it towards the back of the bed, but to Native Americans it had long been a remedy for sore throats, snake bite, gum infections, boils and general septic conditions.

It was introduced to Europe in the 19th century via the Thompsonian School of Physiomedicalism but in recent years has become the most popular and important herb to support the human immune system.

The tea can be taken as a prophylactic against seasonal colds and flu or for chronic infective conditions such as ME (post viral fatigue syndrome), acne, septicaemia and abscesses. Although its mode of action is not yet fully understood it does seem to have antimicrobial action when used internally and eternally – and against both bacteria and viruses.

Ingredients

Rosehip shells, Hibiscus flowers (34%), Peppermint (18%), Echinacea herb (5%), Blackberry leaves, Natural strawberry flavour, Natural orange flavour.