Behold, the purple coneflower. 
Also known as echinacea purpurea, this flower is not only beautiful, but talented. She does well in the bathing suit part of the contest, but also steps solidly up to the plate during the interview with the judges.
Judge: My dear Echinacea, tell us about yourself. How do you plan to make this world a better place?
Echinacea: I provide a nice boost to the immune system when you are struggling with a cold or the flu. Pharmaceutical companies love me! Native Americans were known to use my leaves, stems and roots to treat many ailments, including burns, insect bites, toothaches, throat infections, stomach cramps and snake bites. I’m quite versatile.
Judge: Impressive!
Impressive, indeed. We have a lot of these beauties in our yard. I found a recipe for echinacea tea on Pinterest and I’m inclined to give it a try. It’s also supposed to help with your mood, triggering the production of dopamine. Here’s what the recipe says about the flavor:
“Echinacea has a sharp flavor similar to pine with a powerful floral note. It features a soft body with a refreshing finish and is often described as similar to meadowsweet. Pair it with a dash of honey or add in lemongrass or mint to play up the flavor profile.”
Hmmm….not sure that a tea that tastes like pine would be my “cup of tea,” as it were, but this year I have both lemongrass and mint in the garden, so that might help.
I’ll probably delete this in the morning, while sipping on a nice, hot, piney cup of echinacea tea.
Lynniebeemuseoday 
Go for it! Fresh (not sitting in stores for a long period of time)I “hear” makes a more effective treatment. In addition, you canmake it as potent as you like!We have some flowers, but it will take several more years forus to grow enough to actually use. Let me knowwhat you think!
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I’m trying to decide if I can use my dehydrator to dry it out. I’m hoping if I use the lowest heat setting, it won’t affect the potency. Thoughts?
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Yes, I know what you mean. Mine goes really low (90 degrees, I think) and my dehydrator book seems to think that temp is good. I dried some dill last week and it still smelled wonderful (and still bright green) after words. My challenge for any of this is to keep in in a tight container away from light and drafts. Just my thoughts.
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