 More specifically the glycoproteins of echinacea root extract has the ability to activate portions of the immune system, and is what heavily contributes to the immune system stimulation by echinacea.Nicotiflorin is the dominant flavonid in echinacea, followed by the flavonid rutin.Native Americans used the plant to treat many ailments, including wounds, burns, insect bites, toothaches, throat infections, pain, cough, stomach cramps, and snake bites.