Echinacea Purpurea-Commonly known as the purple coneflower, is used by American Indians as the remedy of choice for infections and animal bites. Research has uncovered active constituents that have a profound effect on proper immune function- particularly its polysaccharides and echinacosides. Used extensively by herbalists and alternative health care providers to boost the immune system, help speed wound healing, reduce inflammations, treat colds and flu, and fight infections. Echinacea helps to activate macrophages, key immune system elements that are directly involved in the destruction of bacteria, viruses, other infectious agents and cancer cells. Reports indicate that Echinacea enhances natural killer cell activity, another important component in the immune system. Echinacea is recommended for use periodically for one or two weeks at a time, do not use continuously, because the body becomes accustomed to it, and it loses effectiveness. This effectiveness is restored in a week or two. If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your physician before using this product. If you have kidney disease, restrict usage to ten days (maximum) to avoid a possible imbalance in excreted minerals