Echinacea purpurea, or purple coneflower, is a popular botanical native to the midwestern United States and central Canada. The flowers, leaves, and stems of this plant are harvested and dried. Preparations include dried powder, tincture, fluid extracts, and teas. No single ingredient seems to be responsible for the herb’s activity; a large number of potentially active chemicals have been identified from the extracts. Echinacea was used by Native Americans to treat various wounds and injuries. Wound healing
Echinacea is believed to boost the immune system by increasing phagocytosis and inhibiting the bacterial enzyme hyaluronidase. Some substances in echinacea appear to have antiviral activity; thus, the herb is sometimes taken to treat the common cold and influenza, an indication for which it has received official approval in Germany. Clinical evidence for the effects of echinacea on upper respiratory tract infections is mixed, with some studies showing no effect and others showing a beneficial effect. In general, echinacea is used as a supportive treatment for any disease involving inflammation and to enhance the immune system. Inflammation: Immunity
Side effects are rare; however, it may interfere with drugs that have immunosuppressant effects.
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