Echinacea (also known as coneflower) is a native perennial to North America. It is typically found in the prairie areas, although it is easily cultivated in the home garden.

Echinacea is most commonly known as an immune booster and is taken at the onset of cold, flu, and respiratory infections. Native uses also include treatment of sore muscles, insect bites, snakebites, toothaches, burns, and sore eyes. (See Enrique Salmon’s “Iwigara”).

Spiritual uses include opening up to inner vision and using the root for purification ceremonies.