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Protocols: Echinacea (E nurnurea)

Description: Immunotonic agent native to Midwest and Great Plains of North America. Used by American Indians to treat bites, stings, burns and abrasions.

Method of Action: Immunologically active polysaceharides obtained from aboveground parts of E purpurea augment basophils, mast cells and white blood cell counts. Also increases production of T4 helper cells as well as interferon, a potent antiviral agent. Found to increase NK killer cell cytoylsis activity and antiviral activity (reduction in plaque-forming units of coxsackievirus B4 strain E2) in in-vitro testing.

Indications and Usage: Shortens the intensity and duration of common cold. Can help to control urinary tract infections, when applied topically can speed wound healing.

Contraindications: Do not use this product if you are pregnant or lactating without first seeking advice from your physician. if used beyond 8 weeks could cause hepatoxicity and therefore should not be used with other know hepatoxic drugs such as anabolic steroids, amiodarone, methotrexate and ketoconazole. However, Echinacea lacks the 1,2 saturated necrine ring associated with hepatotoxicity of pyrrolizindine alkaloids. As an immunostimulat Echinacea should not be used in at the same time as immunosuppressant drugs such as corticosteroids and cyclosporine. Should not be taken by persons with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis or by those infected with HIV.

Dosage and Administration: Tincture of 15 to 30 drops added to water and taken every four hours in water, or juice. Win capsule form take 4 capsules of 500 mg each daily in two divided doses.

Clinical Effect In: Hours to days.

Adverse Reactions: If used beyond 8 weeks could cause hepatoxicity and therefore should not be used with other know hepatoxic drugs such as anabolic steroids, amiodarone, methotrexate and ketoconazole. However, Echinacea lacks the 1,2 saturated necrine ring associated with hepatotoxicity of pyrrolizindine alkaloids. If you suspect that an herb or other supplement is making you sick, call the FDA's MedWatch hotline at 800-332-1088 or contact the agency via its website at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Known Interactive Effects: None known at present.

Additional Considerations: Not designed for continual use. Use for five days and then discontinue two; repeat cycle for total of fifteen days

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