Astragalus and echinacea are both powerful immune-boosting herbs that are often used in combination to fight colds and flus. Astragalus has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine to combat the effects of physical and mental stress, and archaeological digs indicate that Native Americans used echinacea for as many as 400 years to treat wounds and infections. Both herbs are now popular for their ability to shorten the length of the flu and reduce the severity of symptoms. They can be ingested a number of ways, from tea to capsules.
Step 1
Make a tea by boiling the roots of the echinacea and astragalus plants, which you can find at local health food stores. Steep 3 to 6 g of astragalus root and 1 to 2 g of echinacea root in 12 oz. of boiling water. Allow it to steep for five minutes and consume. Drink three servings per day, beginning at the first sign of flu and for 7 to 10 days thereafter.
Step 2
Combine 3 to 5 ml of tincture of astragalus and 1 to 3 ml of tincture of echinacea and take it three times a day, beginning at the first sign of flu and for 7 to 10 days thereafter.
Step 3
Take a standardized extract in capsule form of 250 to 500 mg of astragalus and 300 mg of echinacea three times a day, beginning at the first sign of flu and for 7 to 10 days thereafter.
Step 4
Take a pre-packaged combined standardized extract in capsule form of astragalus and echinacea. Follow package directions for dosage or consult your doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Astragalus root, tincture, capsule or tablet
- Echinacea root, tincture, capsule or tablet
- or
- Astragalus and Echinacea combined capsule
Member Comments