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| They are Echinacea purpurea (Purple coneflower), Echinacea angustifolia (Narrow-leafed coneflower) and Echinacea pallida (Pale coneflower). While they all have slightly different constituents, they are similar enough to discuss together. There are many references that compare and contrast the different species. Echinacea is best known for a general ability to enhance the overall function of the immune system. The active components of Echinacea have not been positively identified although large polysaccharides, as well as isobutylamides and cichoric acid have been implicated. Essentially, Echinacea has been shown to stimulate phagocytosis (engulfing of bacteria/viruses by certain white-blood cells), increase respiratory activity, and increase the motility of the white-blood cells. Human clinical trials have been somewhat contradictory over the past several years; showing both positive and negative results for colds and flues. Echinacea is found in tinctures, fluid extracts, powdered extracts, and standardized extracts. Both roots and whole plants have been used. A reliable source of Echinacea is suggested, as it has been known to be substituted with various "Snakeroots" by some suppliers. A review article concluded that there is inadequate evidence to support claims that echinacea decreases the severity or shortens the duration of upper respiratory infections and that allergic reactions have been reported [Med Lett Drugs Ther 2002;44(1127): pp.29-30]. |
| Hepatitis Laryngitis Pharyngitis ("Strep Throat") |