Echinacea for Dogs

Main Constituents

• polysaccharides
• flavonoids
• essential oils
• alkylamides
• caffeic acid derivatives

Medicinal Activities

• immune system support
• antimicrobial (especially for the mouth and urinary tract)
• anti-inflammatory

Common Uses in Dogs

This herb is most effective in balancing the immune system. It also has a mild, direct effect against bacteria, viruses, and yeasts. It is therefore a good herb to use to fight against various diseases.

However, the timing of administering the herb is important as its effectiveness depends on a relatively healthy immune system. Therefore, it has to be administered to your dog at the first onset of infectious symptoms, otherwise, the effect will be greatly compromised.

If an infection has already set in, this herb can still be used in conjunction with other herbs, such as goldenseal, or Oregon grape.

Echinacea is also a good antimicrobial for the mouth and urinary tract.

In addition, it promotes tissue regeneration and reduces inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory property is helpful in the alleviation of pain resulting from rheumatoid arthritis.

Precautions

As this herb stimulates immune functions and is complementary to a healthy immune system, it should not be used for dogs with abnormally functioning immune systems.

Availability

The seeds and plants are available at most nurseries, and various preparations (such as tincture, decoction, dried and powdered root) are available at many herbal and health food stores. References

J.A. Duke, The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Comprehensive Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing (Rodale Books, 2000).
R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).