Echinacea, a daisy family plant, is used to boost the immune system for colds, but its effectiveness is debated and can cause mild side effects.
Echinacea is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family, commonly used as a herbal remedy for boosting the immune system and reducing the duration of colds. It is available in various forms, including capsules, extracts, and teas. While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions. Echinacea's efficacy in treating and preventing colds is still debated, with some studies showing positive results and others showing no significant benefit. More research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
300-500mg of Echinacea extract two to three times daily, or 1-2 grams of dried root as a tea three times daily. Dosage varies depending on the specific Echinacea species, preparation, and intended use.
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Echinacea is derived from plants of the Echinacea genus, primarily Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, and Echinacea pallida. The roots, leaves, and flowers are harvested, dried, and then processed into various forms such as capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, teas, and topical creams.
Use Type
Inside BodyPotential Benefits
Immune support enhances the body's defense against pathogens by strengthening immune cells, promoting antibody production, and maintaining immune homeostasis. It aims to optimize immune function for a balanced and resilient response to threats.
Accelerates and supports the body's natural wound repair processes. This includes reducing inflammation, promoting collagen synthesis, increasing cell proliferation, and facilitating angiogenesis, leading to faster wound closure, reduced scarring, and decreased infection risk.
Aged garlic extract acts as an antioxidant by neutralizing free radicals, protecting cells from damage and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases. The allicin-derived metabolites are the active components.
Reishi mushrooms contain triterpenes that may reduce inflammation by modulating inflammatory pathways. This could benefit conditions associated with chronic inflammation.
Possible Side Effects
Gastrointestinal upset involves a variety of digestive symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may indicate an underlying condition if persistent.
Dizziness is a sensation of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or vertigo that can arise from multiple causes. It can lead to falls or loss of consciousness in some cases.
Headache is pain in the head ranging from mild to severe, potentially with nausea, light/sound sensitivity, or dizziness. It can be caused by tension, dehydration, stress, or medication side effects, and persistent headaches require medical evaluation.
Allergic reactions are hypersensitivity responses to allergens, ranging from mild skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Symptoms vary widely and are caused by an immune response.
Scientific Evidence
Linde K, Barrett B, Wölkart K, Bauer R, Melchart D. Echinacea for preventing and treating the common cold: a meta-analysis. Lancet Infect Dis. 2006 Jul;6(7):413-21. Schoop R, Klein P, Johnston SL, May B, Johnston SL. Echinacea in the prevention of induced rhinovirus colds: a meta-analysis. Clin Ther. 2006 Feb;28(2):174-84. Shah SA, Sander S, White CM, Rinaldi M, Coleman CI. Evaluation of echinacea for the prevention and treatment of the common cold: a meta-analysis. Lancet Infect Dis. 2007 Jul;7(7):473-80.
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