Echinacea For Female Pelvic Infections

A female pelvic infection, also known as pelvic inflammatory disease, is an infection that targets females' reproductive organs. More than 1 million American women are diagnosed with this health problem every year, notes the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. In most cases, pelvic inflammatory disease is treatable if it is detected early. Before using echinacea or other herbs to help treat your pelvic infection, review all herb-related issues with your primary care provider.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease occurs when bacteria infect any of the structures in your reproductive tract, such as your uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. In most cases, pelvic inflammatory disease is associated with sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia. Lower abdominal pain, increased vaginal discharge and pain during sex are among the most common symptoms of this condition. Pelvic inflammatory disease is a serious health problem that can lead to infertility in 10 percent to 15 percent of women with this condition, states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Plant Information

Echinacea, also known as purple coneflower, is a plant indigenous to certain parts of the United States and Canada. Echinacea thrives in moist, open areas surrounded by woods. This plant possesses a tall stem and a single flower, either purple or pink, which blooms in summer. Both the leaves and roots of this plant contain phytochemicals and nutrients and are used medicinally. Important plant chemicals contained in echinacea include flavonoids, volatile oils and polysaccharides.

Herb Actions

Echinacea is an herbal remedy that might perform numerous health actions within your body. In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," naturopathic physician and herbal medicine expert Sharol Tilgner states that echinacea possesses antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory action. This herb also might stimulate an increase in your leukocytes, or white blood cells, which improves the strength and resiliency of your immune system. Further scientific research evidence might be helpful in determining the true health benefits of this herb for this condition.

Considerations

Because pelvic infections can lead to serious health complications if not treated in a timely manner, you should report to your family doctor when you first notice signs. Your physician can provide you with an accurate diagnosis, order further testing and counsel you on your treatment options. The use of herbal remedies in treating your pelvic infection does not ensure a cure and herbs should be used for this health problem only if you are under the care of a licensed health care professional.