ET and Echinacea

[Mardihel]

Was at my herbalist today and he mentioned Echinacea would help and for me to take drops in water. Does anyone else take this, apparently it helps white blood cells and the immune system, therfore preventing colds, etc.

[fee13]

It is a good immune booster but should not be taken continuously. With the tablets it is recommended 2 weeks on, 1 week off.

[Mardihel in reply to fee13]

Thank you, yes the herbalist said I would take for 2 weeks then have 1 week off, not sure wether to try it or not

[Applesnpears]

You need to check with your doctor to make sure that there will be no interactions with any medications you are taking.

[Hopetohelp]

Yes it is meant to help the immune system but should not be taken continuously. Not sure what effect it has with ET. I take Sambucol (black elderberry) which is also natural if I feel the immune system needs a boost. Whether it is in my mind or not I feel it helps . Can get it at any good supermarket

[Mardihel in reply to Hopetohelp]

Oh thank you, not heard of that before. Yes I think will try the Echinacea, I seem to get a cold if I don't have enough sleep and get run down. I can sleep 10 hrs a night no problem. Drink lots of water and still don't need to get up. I just hate taking the hydroxy

[hunter5582]

I have taken echinacea off and on without any problems. There are several supplements I take that help with other MPN-inflammation related symptoms. Most docs are not familiar with what these supplements do, therefore, I consult with an Integrative Medicine doc who has expertise in both traditional Western medicine and complimentary health approaches.

[Mardihel in reply to hunter5582]

Wow that sounds interesting, I think I will try Echinacea, any other recommendations please, hate taking hydroxy, think even my hair getting thinner. Thank you

[hunter5582 in reply to hunter5582]

FYI - if you experiencing issues with inflammation, then what has worked for me is a Turmeric-Curcumin blend. I experience osteoarthritis, plantars fasciitis, GERD, insomnia, eczema, etc. The Curcumin has really helped with the osteoarthritis and fasciitis. Do be careful with supplements is something can help you - it can also hurt you (e.g interact with other drugs). Some supplements (e.g. fish oil) potentiate aspirin and may be too blood thinning.

All the best.

[GardenGal3]

I worked at a health food co-op for many years in the wellness department. Echinacea is an on and off thing. As far as I know if you feel a cold coming on you take it, otherwise you can use astragalus to ward off colds. I use Kyolic for immune which has garlic, astragalus , and a variety of mushrooms. I believe in what hunter says above about integrative medicine.

[Mardihel]

Thank you yes will read up about integrative medicine, I eat lots of garlic in everything