Synopsis

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

Echinacea, particularly in its various mixed forms (such as Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, and Echinacea pallida), has a long history of traditional use among Native American tribes and later in Western herbal medicine. It has been used primarily to support immune function and to help with symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold. Congestion, as a symptom of respiratory infection, falls under the traditional indications for Echinacea. Herbalists have recommended Echinacea preparations to relieve congestion, sore throat, and other cold symptoms, based on its purported ability to stimulate immune responses and reduce the severity or duration of these illnesses.

However, while there is considerable traditional support for Echinacea's use in respiratory complaints, scientific evidence is mixed and generally does not robustly support its effectiveness for treating congestion specifically. Several clinical trials have assessed Echinacea for the prevention and treatment of the common cold, with some studies showing modest reduction in symptom severity or duration, but results have been inconsistent. The evidence for Echinacea directly relieving congestion is weak, and major systematic reviews (e.g., Cochrane Reviews) have concluded that there is insufficient evidence to recommend Echinacea for this purpose. Thus, while the use for congestion is rooted in tradition, scientific validation remains limited.

More about Echinacea (mixed)
More about Congestion

Other ingredients used for Congestion

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Products containing Echinacea (mixed)