Echinacea shows promise against influenzaEthanolic Extract from (L.) Moench Inhibits Influenza A/B and Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection : Preventive Agent for Viral Respiratory Infections.
We focused on how echinacea, a well-known wildflower, can combat viruses that commonly cause respiratory infections, specifically influenza A and B, as well as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Through a methodical approach, we evaluated the effects of a 60% ethanol extract of echinacea and its active compound, chicoric acid (CA), on these viruses.
Our research utilized various tests to measure the antiviral effectiveness of echinacea. We observed that both the extract and chicoric acid significantly reduced the infectivity of H1N1, IVB, and RSV-A in controlled experiments. Notably, our findings indicated a decrease in viral gene expression and confirmed through microscopy that echinacea's components could limit the ability of these viruses to infect host cells.
Additionally, we found that echinacea's extract and chicoric acid effectively hindered the attachment of H1N1 and IVB viruses to cell receptors, showcasing their potential utility in preventing these viral infections. With this strong set of results, we believe that echinacea could serve as a promising natural remedy or ingredient in functional health foods aimed at reducing the impact of viral respiratory infections.
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Echinacea boosts immune responseComparative immune response and pathogenicity of the H9N2 avian influenza virus after administration of Immulant, based on Echinacea and Nigella sativa, in stressed chickens.
We investigated how a commercial product called Immulant, which contains Echinacea and Nigella sativa, impacts the immune response to the H9N2 avian influenza virus in stressed chickens. The study involved several experimental groups including vaccinated and non-vaccinated chickens, some of which were also given dexamethasone to induce stress, while others received Immulant.
After administering Immulant for six weeks following vaccination, we observed significant improvements in various health markers compared to those chickens that did not receive it. Specifically, Immulant showed promise in boosting the immune response after vaccination, enhancing protection against the virus, and reducing stress-induced effects.
The findings suggest that incorporating such herbal treatments could be beneficial for poultry health, particularly in enhancing vaccine efficacy in stressful conditions. This could be an important consideration for poultry farmers looking to bolster their flocks' defenses against influenza.
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Echinacea reduces influenza complicationsPrevention of influenza virus induced bacterial superinfection by standardized Echinacea purpurea, via regulation of surface receptor expression in human bronchial epithelial cells.
We assessed how Echinacea purpurea, an herbal medicine, affects influenza virus A infections, especially regarding bacterial infections that can follow. Our focus was on the way Echinacea might help mitigate complications caused by influenza, such as pneumonia or bronchitis, which can occur when the viral infection makes the airways more susceptible to bacteria.
Through our research, we learned that when bronchial cells are infected with the influenza virus, they become more attractive to harmful bacteria like Haemophilus influenzae and Staphylococcus aureus. This happens due to an increase in certain surface receptors on the cells, which are like welcoming signs for these bacteria. However, when we introduced Echinacea, we observed a significant reduction in the expression of these receptors, thus preventing bacteria from adhering to the cells.
Additionally, Echinacea appeared to help keep inflammation in check. By reducing the levels of inflammatory markers and certain pathways that lead to inflammation, it potentially lowers the risk of severe respiratory complications. Our findings suggest that Echinacea purpurea could play a crucial role not only in supporting the immune response against influenza but also in reducing the chances of secondary bacterial infections.
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Echinacea shows effectiveness against influenzaEffect of an Echinacea-Based Hot Drink Versus Oseltamivir in Influenza Treatment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Double-Dummy, Multicenter, Noninferiority Clinical Trial.
We conducted a well-structured clinical trial to scrutinize the effectiveness of a new Echinacea formulation, named Echinaforce Hotdrink, against oseltamivir, a widely recognized antiviral medication for influenza. This study involved 473 patients who had early symptoms of the flu, allowing us to compare how each treatment influenced recovery.
Participants were given either 5 days of oseltamivir followed by placebo or a 10-day regimen of Echinaforce Hotdrink. By evaluating the proportion of patients who reported their symptoms as absent or mild, we aimed to determine if Echinacea could hold its own against the established antiviral treatment.
Remarkably, we found that Echinaforce Hotdrink was comparable in effectiveness to oseltamivir. Not only did it demonstrate a similar level of symptom relief, but it also seemed to come with a lower risk of complications and adverse effects. This positions Echinacea as a promising option for those seeking natural self-care solutions when facing influenza.
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Echinacea's potential against influenzaAnti-viral properties and mode of action of standardized Echinacea purpurea extract against highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1, H7N7) and swine-origin H1N1 (S-OIV).
We delved into the potential of Echinacea purpurea, particularly its standardized extract, to combat influenza viruses. Given concerns about the effectiveness and availability of traditional antiviral treatments like vaccines and medications, especially during outbreaks, our study aimed to understand how this herbal remedy might serve as a helpful alternative.
Through our research, we found that Echinacea was effective in inactivating various strains of the influenza virus, including the highly pathogenic avian influenza and swine-origin H1N1. The extract worked at doses that were close to what is usually recommended for oral intake, showing that even lower concentrations could also have a significant effect.
Interestingly, one of the key findings was that Echinacea appears to disrupt the virus’s ability to enter cells. This means that taking Echinacea could potentially prevent the virus from spreading within the body. Moreover, unlike some antiviral drugs that can lead to resistant strains of the virus, no resistant variants appeared when testing Echinacea. This suggests that it might offer a reliable alternative without the risk of creating drug-resistant viruses.
Overall, we believe that incorporating a standardized Echinacea preparation into flu prevention strategies could be a valuable and cost-effective addition to existing options. It provides another tool in our fight against influenza, reinforcing the importance of exploring natural remedies alongside traditional treatments.
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