Evidence supporting the use of: Echinacea (various)
For the health condition: Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Echinacea has a long history of traditional use, particularly among Native American groups, for a variety of infections, including those that might cause swollen lymph nodes (such as sore throats, respiratory tract infections, and wounds). Historically, Echinacea preparations were used to "purify the blood" and to support the body's defenses during infection, which often coincided with lymph node swelling. However, while Echinacea is popularly used today as an "immune booster," rigorous scientific evidence specifically supporting its effectiveness in treating swollen lymph nodes or lymphadenopathy is lacking. Most modern studies on Echinacea focus on its possible effects in reducing the duration or severity of colds and respiratory infections, not on its impact on lymphatic swelling or lymph node function. There is limited or no high-quality clinical data directly linking Echinacea to reduced lymph node enlargement. Its use for this purpose is therefore rooted in traditional practices rather than validated by modern science, and its efficacy for swollen glands remains unproven.
More about Echinacea (various)
More about Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen)
Other ingredients used for Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen)
burdockcat's claw
Coptis chinensis
turmeric
echinacea purpurea
fu ling
ginger
goldenseal
licorice root
platycodon root
slippery elm bark
sarsaparilla
atractylodes
rubia cordifolia
lingzhi
pau d'arco
prickly ash
teasel
ganoderma
hydrangea
polyporus
cleavers
Aralia
Andrographis
Baliospermum
Barleria
Banyan
Black Nightshade
Bupleurum
Chinese Mountain Ant
Calotropis gigantea
Clerodendrum trichotomum
Codonopsis
Cinquefoil
Crinum latifolium
Chaenomeles lagenaria
Castor Oil
Copaiba Oil
Deer Root
Devil's Club
Dipsacus
Echinacea
Embelia
Mistletoe
Spikenard
Other health conditions supported by Echinacea (various)
Allergies (respiratory)Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Cold Sores
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Congestion (sinus)
Infection
Infection (viral)
Inflammation
Influenza
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen)
Sinus Infection
Skin (infections)
Sore Throat
Staph Infections
Strep Throat
Urinary Tract Infections
Wounds and Sores