Stiff,
hairy stem 1 to 2 feet tall topped by a spiky, dark-brown flower head
disk with pink-purple petals. The root of this plant was the most important
medicine for many Plains Indians tribes. When chewed or mashed and applied
like a paste, its properties are that of a local anesthetic, which led
to its use for treating snakebites, burns, toothache, arthritis, measles,
sore muscles, and more. Echinacea products are sold in stores today as
boosts to the immune system. Popularity of this herbal medicine has, unfortunately,
led to a drastic reduction in remaining wild stands of this plant.