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Page 44
Choosing an Echinacea Preparation
Another common question that arises with herbs in general is, ''What is the best type of preparation to usepowder, capsules, teas, tablets or tinctures?" Traditionally, Native Americans used echinacea's fresh root juice internally and externally as well as its dried root. Fresh echinacea is likely to be more potent. Unfortunately, very few of us have access to the fresh roots growing on the plains and must look for other preparations. Each kind of preparation has advantages and disadvantages and each can be used with a relatively high degree of effectiveness as long as you start with fresh, undamaged plant material and prepare and store it properly.
Teas: Infusions and Decoctions
Teas are perhaps the oldest form of medicinal herb preparation in existence. While Americans drink tea predominantly for its flavor and for the ritual of it, peoples of many nations consciously drink various herbal mixtures as healthful beverages, varying the tea mixture depending upon how they feel at any given time. Teas are among the most beneficial preparations you can use, and certainly the most inexpensive. The water extractions have a high degree of bioavailability so it is easy for the body to absorb

 
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