We explored how Echinacea purpurea, a plant commonly used in herbal tea, might help relieve allergies by focusing on its effects on mast cells. Mast cells play a significant role in type-I allergies, such as hay fever, by releasing histamine and leukotrienes—substances that cause allergic symptoms.
Our evaluation involved water extracts from the petals, leaves, and stems of Echinacea purpurea. We specifically looked at how these extracts influenced the release of histamine and other chemical mediators from mast cell lines. The results were quite interesting: both petal and leaf extracts significantly reduced histamine release in stimulated cells. However, the stem extract did not show any effect.
Notably, we found that the petal extract was much more effective than the leaf extract. Additionally, all extracts effectively suppressed leukotriene B4 production, which is another mediator involved in allergic reactions. The petal extract also seemed to decrease certain cellular signaling events associated with mast cell activation.
Overall, our findings suggest that Echinacea purpurea petal extract could potentially help alleviate allergic symptoms, particularly in conditions like hay fever.
Effective booster
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Immune booster! I use this product at the first sign of illness or allergies. I take twenty drops in one to two ounces of water twice daily until my symptoms improve. It is vital that I never run out, as it works best when used at the onset.