Echinacea (various)
Other names for Echinacea (various)
dried echinacea angustifolia and {echinacea} pallida
echinacea
echinacea blend
echinacea extract, 4% phenols
echinacea herbal extract
echinacea liquid extract
echinacea proprietary blend
echinacea proprietary blend extract 4:1
echinacea proprietary extract blend
echinacea purpurea & angustifolia
echinacea purpurea/angustifolia extract
echinacea supreme
fresh echinacea angustifolia and {echinacea} purpurea
organic echinacea
total alcohol free echinacea extracts blend
Synopsis of Echinacea (various)
History
Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is a genus of flowering plants native to North America. Historically, it has played a vital role in traditional medicine, particularly among Indigenous peoples such as the Plains Indians. These communities utilized Echinacea for a wide array of remedies, including as a treatment for wounds, sore throats, coughs, and snakebites. Its application as a poultice for skin irritations and infections further underscores its versatility in folk medicine. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Echinacea gained popularity among settlers and was incorporated into early American pharmacopeias, often recommended for infections and as a general immune booster.
Modern interest in Echinacea focuses on its potential to support the immune system and reduce the duration and severity of colds and respiratory infections. Scientific studies have highlighted the plant’s content of active compounds, such as alkamides, polysaccharides, and flavonoids, which are believed to contribute to its beneficial effects.
Echinacea is frequently used in herbal combinations to enhance its efficacy. It is often paired with goldenseal, elderberry, or astragalus in nutritional products targeting immune health. Such combinations aim to provide synergistic effects, supporting the body’s defenses in a holistic manner. As a natural and time-honored botanical, Echinacea remains a valued ingredient in both traditional remedies and contemporary wellness products, reflecting its enduring reputation for promoting overall health and vitality.
Traditional and scientific validation
Echinacea, a group of flowering plants native to North America, has a long history of use in traditional medicine by Indigenous peoples and early settlers, primarily for treating infections and wounds. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Echinacea preparations became popular in the United States and Europe as purported remedies for colds, respiratory infections, and general immune support.
Modern scientific interest in Echinacea focuses on its potential immunomodulatory effects. Several clinical studies have investigated its efficacy in preventing or treating upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold. Some randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses suggest that certain Echinacea preparations may modestly reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms, or possibly decrease the likelihood of developing a cold when taken at the first sign of illness. Echinacea is thought to stimulate the immune system by increasing the activity of white blood cells and promoting the release of cytokines.
However, results across studies are mixed, with some research showing little to no benefit. Variations in Echinacea species, preparation methods, dosages, and study designs may account for these inconsistencies. Overall, Echinacea is generally well-tolerated when used short-term, with few reported side effects.
While more rigorous, standardized research is needed to fully verify its effectiveness, Echinacea remains a popular herbal ingredient in nutritional products. Its potential contributions to immune health, combined with its historical significance, continue to support its role in complementary health approaches.
Echinacea (various) is used for these health conditions
Allergies (respiratory) (Traditional)
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Traditional)
Cold Sores (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Scientific)
Colds (decongestant) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (prevention) (Scientific)
Congestion (sinus) (Traditional)
Infection (Scientific)
Infection (viral) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Influenza (Traditional)
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen) (Traditional)
Sinus Infection (Traditional)
Skin (infections) (Traditional)
Sore Throat (Traditional)
Staph Infections (Traditional)
Strep Throat (Traditional)
Urinary Tract Infections (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Echinacea (various) is used to support these body systems
Gums (Traditional)
Immune System (Scientific)
Lymphatics (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
