Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs), particularly chlorogenic acid, are polyphenolic compounds commonly found in coffee, artichoke, and various medicinal plants such as Echinacea purpurea. The use of plants containing CQAs for colds and related viral infections is rooted in traditional medicine, especially in herbal remedies in Europe and North America. Historical records indicate that extracts of Echinacea have been used for centuries to alleviate cold symptoms, which may in part be attributed to their CQA content. However, direct evidence linking CQAs themselves to antiviral effects in humans is limited. Some in vitro studies indicate that CQAs possess mild antiviral properties against certain viruses, but clinical trials specifically testing pure caffeoylquinic acids for colds are lacking. Thus, while there is a traditional basis for using CQA-rich plants in cold remedies, and some preliminary laboratory evidence of antiviral activity, robust clinical validation is absent. The rating reflects the presence of traditional use and weak scientific support, but not enough to warrant higher confidence.

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Products containing Caffeoylquinic acids (unspecified)