What is Echinacea?
Echinacea belongs to the herbaceous, flowering daisy family but is by no means a "shrinking daisy." Echinacea has been used for many years by the natives who lived where this plant thrived, North America. Echinacea has been used for centuries to heal and protect. This plant quickly heals and protects itself from damage from outside influences like no other plant on the planet can. To maximize the benefits, we've opted for a root/aerial portion duo. Most know the benefits of echinacea when it's put to the test against the many common bugs that plague us but there are certainly more uses for this herb.

Echinacea Flower.
Perhaps one of the most appealing benefits is the anti-aging properties that echinacea possesses. It's collagen boosting ability has been studied time and time again and found to be effective against the breakdown of those collagen and elastin fibers that we all pray will never weaken. It also helps retain the skins moisture by protecting the lipids and ceramides we need to keep our skin hydrated. When we think of our skincare routines, our brains automatically go to topical treatments. However, starting from the inside is absolutely your best bet. Buddha Teas offers an organic and tasty way to hydrate and protect your skin while also giving your body an incredible immune system boost. The Science Behind Echinacea
Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower) originated and now widely grows in North America. The Native Americans discovered it had incredible effects on the sick and aging. It would be years before we had a scientific explanation for its powers. Turns out that this little herbaceous flower is full of polyphenols. Polyphenols are compounds that many plants make and use for their own protection whether it's their color or structure or longevity. The Echinacea purpurea has a very specific polyphenol called Cichoric acid which is a potent antioxidant and antiviral. It provides exceptional protection for this little plant. Although we are quite different from plants, we greatly benefit from these same compounds that also keep these plants thriving in environments that could otherwise cause great damage to them. Sounds slightly like our environment so let's take notes from these tiny geniuses and use what nature has given us.

What Does Echinacea Tea Taste like?
Echinacea has a rather strong yet floral, earthy flavor. It's one of the few teas that you can actually feel on your palette. Some say it's like a slight tingle, almost like the same effect peppermint would produce. We recommend using our Buddha Teas Alfalfa or Clover Honey to sweeten your tea. Echinacea is also a good tea to pair with ginger or Buddha Teas Mullein Tea. The pairing will not only lighten the flavor and make this tea absolutely delicious, but it will dramatically enhance the benefits. Echinacea Flowers on a Table with a Tea Cup.