Reviewed By
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 16 Researches
6.6
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 16 Reviews
8.4
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 0.7 ml
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Proprietary extract Blend:Echinacea root (Echinacea purpurea)(O)(F), Goldenseal rhizome with rootlet (Hydrastis canadensis)(O), Elecampane root (Inula helenium)(O), Spllanthes whole flowering plant (Acmella oleracea)(O)(F), Yerba Santa aerial parts (Eriodictyon californicum)(W), Horseradish root (Armoracia rusticana)(O), Ginger rhizome (Zingiber officinale)(O), Black Elderberry fruit (Sambucus nigra)(O), Yarrow flowering top (Achillea milliefolium)(O)(W), Wild Indigo root (Baptisia spp.)(W)(F)
651 mg (E)
†
Top Medical Research Studies
9
In a comprehensive clinical trial, we examined the effectiveness of Echinacea purpurea as a preventative measure against the common cold. This research stands out as the largest of its kind, evaluating both the safety and benefits of Echinacea over a long-term treatment period of four months.
We found that this proprietary extract of Echinacea, known as Echinaforce, proved to be beneficial in several ways. It significantly reduced the total number of cold episodes and the duration of those colds. Additionally, participants required fewer medications to cope with their symptoms, highlighting Echinacea's potential as a natural remedy.
Importantly, the extract showed impressive results, particularly for individuals who often experience recurrent infections. The study also indicated that the more closely individuals followed the recommended protocol, the better the preventive effects. Overall, we feel encouraged by the positive risk-to-benefit ratio of Echinacea purpurea when taken as directed for the common cold.
We found that this proprietary extract of Echinacea, known as Echinaforce, proved to be beneficial in several ways. It significantly reduced the total number of cold episodes and the duration of those colds. Additionally, participants required fewer medications to cope with their symptoms, highlighting Echinacea's potential as a natural remedy.
Importantly, the extract showed impressive results, particularly for individuals who often experience recurrent infections. The study also indicated that the more closely individuals followed the recommended protocol, the better the preventive effects. Overall, we feel encouraged by the positive risk-to-benefit ratio of Echinacea purpurea when taken as directed for the common cold.
Read More
9
Echinaforce® shows promise for colds
We explored how Echinaforce®, a standardized extract from the Echinacea purpurea plant, can affect respiratory tract infections, including the common cold. In recent research, this treatment was subjected to a rigorous examination through a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study lasting four months. This methodology is important because it allows for a clear comparison between those receiving the treatment and those receiving a placebo.
During the study, we observed that Echinaforce® exhibits immunomodulatory and broad antiviral effects against various respiratory viruses. Notably, it blocks proteins like Haemagglutinin and Neuraminidase, which are often involved in viral replication. One of the significant advantages of Echinaforce® over traditional antiviral medications, such as Oseltamivir, is that it does not lead to viral resistance.
The findings support the idea that Echinaforce® can enhance immune resistance and offers both long-term and short-term benefits for preventing and treating common cold symptoms. This makes it a promising option for individuals looking for natural ways to boost their immune system and combat viral infections.
During the study, we observed that Echinaforce® exhibits immunomodulatory and broad antiviral effects against various respiratory viruses. Notably, it blocks proteins like Haemagglutinin and Neuraminidase, which are often involved in viral replication. One of the significant advantages of Echinaforce® over traditional antiviral medications, such as Oseltamivir, is that it does not lead to viral resistance.
The findings support the idea that Echinaforce® can enhance immune resistance and offers both long-term and short-term benefits for preventing and treating common cold symptoms. This makes it a promising option for individuals looking for natural ways to boost their immune system and combat viral infections.
Read More
8
We conducted a study to explore the safety and effectiveness of Echinacea purpurea in preventing common cold episodes among 755 healthy participants over four months. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either an extract of Echinacea or a placebo, and they diligently recorded any adverse events or cold-related issues in diaries throughout the study period.
Our findings revealed that Echinacea appears to support cold prevention by reducing the number of cold episodes and the overall days spent unwell. Those who used Echinacea experienced fewer occasions requiring pain relief medications and showed a significant decrease in illness due to virally confirmed colds, especially those caused by enveloped viruses. Notably, participants who followed the treatment protocol closely benefitted the most, showing enhanced preventive effects from Echinacea.
Throughout the study, safety was carefully monitored, revealing that the incidence of adverse events was similar between those taking Echinacea and those on placebo. This indicates that Echinacea has a favorable safety profile comparable to taking no active treatment at all.
Overall, regular intake of Echinacea purpurea can offer a valuable boost in our defenses against the common cold, making it a potential natural remedy for those looking to reduce the frequency and severity of colds.
Our findings revealed that Echinacea appears to support cold prevention by reducing the number of cold episodes and the overall days spent unwell. Those who used Echinacea experienced fewer occasions requiring pain relief medications and showed a significant decrease in illness due to virally confirmed colds, especially those caused by enveloped viruses. Notably, participants who followed the treatment protocol closely benefitted the most, showing enhanced preventive effects from Echinacea.
Throughout the study, safety was carefully monitored, revealing that the incidence of adverse events was similar between those taking Echinacea and those on placebo. This indicates that Echinacea has a favorable safety profile comparable to taking no active treatment at all.
Overall, regular intake of Echinacea purpurea can offer a valuable boost in our defenses against the common cold, making it a potential natural remedy for those looking to reduce the frequency and severity of colds.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Effective for children
5 people found this helpful
I have been using this for my 6-year-old, and it has stopped the common cold in its tracks. I'm also using it on my 2.5-year-old, and it seems to be working as well. For my 6-year-old, I mix it with water, and for my younger one, I add it to juice—they both take it without any problems.
Read More
9
Rapid cold recovery
4 people found this helpful
Excellent! It’s the best remedy I have used for two years. At the first symptoms of a common cold, starting treatment immediately often prevents it from developing. I also recovered from covid much quicker than my husband, who didn’t take it. It's not pleasant to taste, but I quickly mix it with juice. I always keep this in my first aid kit.
Read More
10
Immediate relief
3 people found this helpful
It works remarkably well. Even with a fever, if I take it at the onset of a common cold, I feel better immediately. I'm stocking up because it genuinely works!
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 16 Researches
6.6
- All Researches
9
We're diving into the effectiveness of Echinacea for children dealing with acute cold and flu symptoms. A total of 79 children, aged between 4 and 12, were included in this study. We randomized them to receive either three or five doses of Echinaforce Junior tablets daily, allowing us to compare the benefits of 1200 mg versus 2000 mg of Echinacea extract.
During the cold episodes, parents diligently recorded their child's respiratory symptoms, while both parents and physicians provided feedback on how well the treatment was tolerated. Our observations revealed that Echinacea was well-received, boasting an impressive tolerability rate of over 96%. On average, cold episodes lasted 7.5 days, and most children fully recovered within 10 days.
Notably, we found that those taking five doses of Echinacea daily experienced a shorter average duration of symptoms, cutting the episode time by about 1.7 days compared to those taking three doses. This effective symptom relief led to low antibiotic prescriptions, with only 4.6% of children needing them. Overall, we see Echinacea tablets as a promising option for managing acute cold episodes in children, especially at higher doses.
During the cold episodes, parents diligently recorded their child's respiratory symptoms, while both parents and physicians provided feedback on how well the treatment was tolerated. Our observations revealed that Echinacea was well-received, boasting an impressive tolerability rate of over 96%. On average, cold episodes lasted 7.5 days, and most children fully recovered within 10 days.
Notably, we found that those taking five doses of Echinacea daily experienced a shorter average duration of symptoms, cutting the episode time by about 1.7 days compared to those taking three doses. This effective symptom relief led to low antibiotic prescriptions, with only 4.6% of children needing them. Overall, we see Echinacea tablets as a promising option for managing acute cold episodes in children, especially at higher doses.
Read More
9
In a comprehensive clinical trial, we examined the effectiveness of Echinacea purpurea as a preventative measure against the common cold. This research stands out as the largest of its kind, evaluating both the safety and benefits of Echinacea over a long-term treatment period of four months.
We found that this proprietary extract of Echinacea, known as Echinaforce, proved to be beneficial in several ways. It significantly reduced the total number of cold episodes and the duration of those colds. Additionally, participants required fewer medications to cope with their symptoms, highlighting Echinacea's potential as a natural remedy.
Importantly, the extract showed impressive results, particularly for individuals who often experience recurrent infections. The study also indicated that the more closely individuals followed the recommended protocol, the better the preventive effects. Overall, we feel encouraged by the positive risk-to-benefit ratio of Echinacea purpurea when taken as directed for the common cold.
We found that this proprietary extract of Echinacea, known as Echinaforce, proved to be beneficial in several ways. It significantly reduced the total number of cold episodes and the duration of those colds. Additionally, participants required fewer medications to cope with their symptoms, highlighting Echinacea's potential as a natural remedy.
Importantly, the extract showed impressive results, particularly for individuals who often experience recurrent infections. The study also indicated that the more closely individuals followed the recommended protocol, the better the preventive effects. Overall, we feel encouraged by the positive risk-to-benefit ratio of Echinacea purpurea when taken as directed for the common cold.
Read More
9
Echinaforce® shows promise for colds
We explored how Echinaforce®, a standardized extract from the Echinacea purpurea plant, can affect respiratory tract infections, including the common cold. In recent research, this treatment was subjected to a rigorous examination through a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study lasting four months. This methodology is important because it allows for a clear comparison between those receiving the treatment and those receiving a placebo.
During the study, we observed that Echinaforce® exhibits immunomodulatory and broad antiviral effects against various respiratory viruses. Notably, it blocks proteins like Haemagglutinin and Neuraminidase, which are often involved in viral replication. One of the significant advantages of Echinaforce® over traditional antiviral medications, such as Oseltamivir, is that it does not lead to viral resistance.
The findings support the idea that Echinaforce® can enhance immune resistance and offers both long-term and short-term benefits for preventing and treating common cold symptoms. This makes it a promising option for individuals looking for natural ways to boost their immune system and combat viral infections.
During the study, we observed that Echinaforce® exhibits immunomodulatory and broad antiviral effects against various respiratory viruses. Notably, it blocks proteins like Haemagglutinin and Neuraminidase, which are often involved in viral replication. One of the significant advantages of Echinaforce® over traditional antiviral medications, such as Oseltamivir, is that it does not lead to viral resistance.
The findings support the idea that Echinaforce® can enhance immune resistance and offers both long-term and short-term benefits for preventing and treating common cold symptoms. This makes it a promising option for individuals looking for natural ways to boost their immune system and combat viral infections.
Read More
9
In our study, we investigated the effectiveness of a multiherbal formula called Immumax, which includes Echinacea, alongside garlic, Nigella sativa oil, Panax ginseng, vitamin C, and zinc, in treating the common cold. Conducted in an outpatient setting, this double-blind, randomized, controlled trial involved 62 participants who exhibited common cold symptoms. They were divided into two groups; one received Immumax, while the other received a placebo.
Our findings revealed that the patients taking Immumax experienced a significant reduction in the duration and severity of their cold symptoms compared to those on the placebo. Specifically, the average time for symptoms to resolve was notably quicker—4 days for Immumax users versus 8 days for the placebo group. Additionally, by day four and eight, there was a significant decrease in overall symptom severity scores among Immumax recipients.
Overall, we can confidently say that the inclusion of Echinacea in the multiherbal formula contributes positively to managing cold symptoms, aiding in quicker recovery. However, it’s essential to note that we didn't isolate the individual effects of Echinacea, so while it seems beneficial within this combination, we can’t definitively attribute all the positive effects solely to Echinacea.
Our findings revealed that the patients taking Immumax experienced a significant reduction in the duration and severity of their cold symptoms compared to those on the placebo. Specifically, the average time for symptoms to resolve was notably quicker—4 days for Immumax users versus 8 days for the placebo group. Additionally, by day four and eight, there was a significant decrease in overall symptom severity scores among Immumax recipients.
Overall, we can confidently say that the inclusion of Echinacea in the multiherbal formula contributes positively to managing cold symptoms, aiding in quicker recovery. However, it’s essential to note that we didn't isolate the individual effects of Echinacea, so while it seems beneficial within this combination, we can’t definitively attribute all the positive effects solely to Echinacea.
Read More
We explored the effects of Echinacea purpurea, a popular herbal remedy, on our immune response to the common cold. The study employed advanced techniques to measure how a standardized extract of Echinacea affects THP-1 monocytes, a type of immune cell. Through transcriptome, epigenome, and kinome profiling, we identified significant immunomodulatory effects from the Echinacea treatment.
Our findings revealed that Echinacea stimulates antiviral pathways responsible for activating immune responses. This includes enhancing signaling from interferons, which act as messengers in our immune system, and boosting the activity of pattern recognition receptors, which help identify pathogens. We also observed changes in genes related to inflammation and the body's metabolic processes, indicating a comprehensive strengthening of our innate immunity.
Furthermore, Echinacea treatment was linked to increased DNA methylation at specific genomic sites. This may inhibit the expression of endogenous retroviral sequences, contributing to a protective evolutionary response to viral infections. Such changes suggest that Echinacea may not only help alleviate symptoms but could also reduce the duration of colds caused by various coronaviruses, including new variants like SARS-CoV-2.
Overall, we believe Echinacea purpurea shows promise as a supportive treatment for common colds, particularly in boosting our inherent antiviral defenses during infections.
Our findings revealed that Echinacea stimulates antiviral pathways responsible for activating immune responses. This includes enhancing signaling from interferons, which act as messengers in our immune system, and boosting the activity of pattern recognition receptors, which help identify pathogens. We also observed changes in genes related to inflammation and the body's metabolic processes, indicating a comprehensive strengthening of our innate immunity.
Furthermore, Echinacea treatment was linked to increased DNA methylation at specific genomic sites. This may inhibit the expression of endogenous retroviral sequences, contributing to a protective evolutionary response to viral infections. Such changes suggest that Echinacea may not only help alleviate symptoms but could also reduce the duration of colds caused by various coronaviruses, including new variants like SARS-CoV-2.
Overall, we believe Echinacea purpurea shows promise as a supportive treatment for common colds, particularly in boosting our inherent antiviral defenses during infections.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 16 Reviews
8.4
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Effective for children
5 people found this helpful
I have been using this for my 6-year-old, and it has stopped the common cold in its tracks. I'm also using it on my 2.5-year-old, and it seems to be working as well. For my 6-year-old, I mix it with water, and for my younger one, I add it to juice—they both take it without any problems.
Read More
9
Rapid cold recovery
4 people found this helpful
Excellent! It’s the best remedy I have used for two years. At the first symptoms of a common cold, starting treatment immediately often prevents it from developing. I also recovered from covid much quicker than my husband, who didn’t take it. It's not pleasant to taste, but I quickly mix it with juice. I always keep this in my first aid kit.
Read More
10
Immediate relief
3 people found this helpful
It works remarkably well. Even with a fever, if I take it at the onset of a common cold, I feel better immediately. I'm stocking up because it genuinely works!
Read More
9
Quick symptom relief
2 people found this helpful
This really works! I have fantastic immunity, but when I had a high fever and sore throat, taking this combined with the Herb Pharm Virattack eliminated most of my symptoms within four hours—remarkable results that previously would have resulted in a cold.
Read More
9
Stops cold progression
1 people found this helpful
This stuff is fantastic for preventing a common cold if I’m stressed or feeling one approach. If I take it early enough, it halts the cold effectively; if I take it while sick, it reduces symptoms to just four days.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
7.5
Prevents cold development
4 people found this helpful
I think this product is fantastic! I use it at the first sign of a cold, and I've often managed to stop it from developing.
9
Quick symptom relief
2 people found this helpful
This really works! I have fantastic immunity, but when I had a high fever and sore throat, taking this combined with the Herb Pharm Virattack eliminated most of my symptoms within four hours—remarkable results that previously would have resulted in a cold.
9
Stops cold progression
1 people found this helpful
This stuff is fantastic for preventing a common cold if I’m stressed or feeling one approach. If I take it early enough, it halts the cold effectively; if I take it while sick, it reduces symptoms to just four days.
9
Effective for children
5 people found this helpful
I have been using this for my 6-year-old, and it has stopped the common cold in its tracks. I'm also using it on my 2.5-year-old, and it seems to be working as well. For my 6-year-old, I mix it with water, and for my younger one, I add it to juice—they both take it without any problems.
9
Immune system enhancer
1 people found this helpful
I first tried this product on a friend's recommendation. It works wonders in preventing colds. Whenever a sore throat starts, I take it, and by the next day, I feel better. It definitely boosts my immune system.
9
Rapid cold recovery
4 people found this helpful
Excellent! It’s the best remedy I have used for two years. At the first symptoms of a common cold, starting treatment immediately often prevents it from developing. I also recovered from covid much quicker than my husband, who didn’t take it. It's not pleasant to taste, but I quickly mix it with juice. I always keep this in my first aid kit.
6
Calming effect
1 people found this helpful
It’s surprisingly bitter, but I mix it with honey in yogurt to take it. I find it very effective; drinking it when I feel a cold coming on leaves me feeling much calmer the next day.
7.5
Effective cold relief
Easy to use and effective. I feel it helps even when I have cold symptoms already.
7.5
Restores health quickly
1 people found this helpful
This works remarkably well to combat an approaching common cold. Whenever I feel unwell, I use this product twice daily for a few days, and I quickly return to my healthy state.
We explored the effects of Echinacea purpurea, a popular herbal remedy, on our immune response to the common cold. The study employed advanced techniques to measure how a standardized extract of Echinacea affects THP-1 monocytes, a type of immune cell. Through transcriptome, epigenome, and kinome profiling, we identified significant immunomodulatory effects from the Echinacea treatment.
Our findings revealed that Echinacea stimulates antiviral pathways responsible for activating immune responses. This includes enhancing signaling from interferons, which act as messengers in our immune system, and boosting the activity of pattern recognition receptors, which help identify pathogens. We also observed changes in genes related to inflammation and the body's metabolic processes, indicating a comprehensive strengthening of our innate immunity.
Furthermore, Echinacea treatment was linked to increased DNA methylation at specific genomic sites. This may inhibit the expression of endogenous retroviral sequences, contributing to a protective evolutionary response to viral infections. Such changes suggest that Echinacea may not only help alleviate symptoms but could also reduce the duration of colds caused by various coronaviruses, including new variants like SARS-CoV-2.
Overall, we believe Echinacea purpurea shows promise as a supportive treatment for common colds, particularly in boosting our inherent antiviral defenses during infections.
Our findings revealed that Echinacea stimulates antiviral pathways responsible for activating immune responses. This includes enhancing signaling from interferons, which act as messengers in our immune system, and boosting the activity of pattern recognition receptors, which help identify pathogens. We also observed changes in genes related to inflammation and the body's metabolic processes, indicating a comprehensive strengthening of our innate immunity.
Furthermore, Echinacea treatment was linked to increased DNA methylation at specific genomic sites. This may inhibit the expression of endogenous retroviral sequences, contributing to a protective evolutionary response to viral infections. Such changes suggest that Echinacea may not only help alleviate symptoms but could also reduce the duration of colds caused by various coronaviruses, including new variants like SARS-CoV-2.
Overall, we believe Echinacea purpurea shows promise as a supportive treatment for common colds, particularly in boosting our inherent antiviral defenses during infections.
9
In a comprehensive clinical trial, we examined the effectiveness of Echinacea purpurea as a preventative measure against the common cold. This research stands out as the largest of its kind, evaluating both the safety and benefits of Echinacea over a long-term treatment period of four months.
We found that this proprietary extract of Echinacea, known as Echinaforce, proved to be beneficial in several ways. It significantly reduced the total number of cold episodes and the duration of those colds. Additionally, participants required fewer medications to cope with their symptoms, highlighting Echinacea's potential as a natural remedy.
Importantly, the extract showed impressive results, particularly for individuals who often experience recurrent infections. The study also indicated that the more closely individuals followed the recommended protocol, the better the preventive effects. Overall, we feel encouraged by the positive risk-to-benefit ratio of Echinacea purpurea when taken as directed for the common cold.
We found that this proprietary extract of Echinacea, known as Echinaforce, proved to be beneficial in several ways. It significantly reduced the total number of cold episodes and the duration of those colds. Additionally, participants required fewer medications to cope with their symptoms, highlighting Echinacea's potential as a natural remedy.
Importantly, the extract showed impressive results, particularly for individuals who often experience recurrent infections. The study also indicated that the more closely individuals followed the recommended protocol, the better the preventive effects. Overall, we feel encouraged by the positive risk-to-benefit ratio of Echinacea purpurea when taken as directed for the common cold.
8
We conducted a study to explore the safety and effectiveness of Echinacea purpurea in preventing common cold episodes among 755 healthy participants over four months. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either an extract of Echinacea or a placebo, and they diligently recorded any adverse events or cold-related issues in diaries throughout the study period.
Our findings revealed that Echinacea appears to support cold prevention by reducing the number of cold episodes and the overall days spent unwell. Those who used Echinacea experienced fewer occasions requiring pain relief medications and showed a significant decrease in illness due to virally confirmed colds, especially those caused by enveloped viruses. Notably, participants who followed the treatment protocol closely benefitted the most, showing enhanced preventive effects from Echinacea.
Throughout the study, safety was carefully monitored, revealing that the incidence of adverse events was similar between those taking Echinacea and those on placebo. This indicates that Echinacea has a favorable safety profile comparable to taking no active treatment at all.
Overall, regular intake of Echinacea purpurea can offer a valuable boost in our defenses against the common cold, making it a potential natural remedy for those looking to reduce the frequency and severity of colds.
Our findings revealed that Echinacea appears to support cold prevention by reducing the number of cold episodes and the overall days spent unwell. Those who used Echinacea experienced fewer occasions requiring pain relief medications and showed a significant decrease in illness due to virally confirmed colds, especially those caused by enveloped viruses. Notably, participants who followed the treatment protocol closely benefitted the most, showing enhanced preventive effects from Echinacea.
Throughout the study, safety was carefully monitored, revealing that the incidence of adverse events was similar between those taking Echinacea and those on placebo. This indicates that Echinacea has a favorable safety profile comparable to taking no active treatment at all.
Overall, regular intake of Echinacea purpurea can offer a valuable boost in our defenses against the common cold, making it a potential natural remedy for those looking to reduce the frequency and severity of colds.
4
We explored the effects of echinacea on cough, particularly in relation to upper respiratory infections and the common cold. Our review focused on various studies that tested echinacea alongside other herbal treatments.
The findings indicated that although echinacea was examined across multiple trials, the evidence supporting its effectiveness was classified as limited. In fact, it showed a slight improvement in alleviating cough symptoms, but it did not stand out as a major player compared to other herbal remedies like Andrographis paniculata or ivy-based preparations, which demonstrated stronger evidence of effectiveness.
While we can appreciate the interest in echinacea for cold symptoms, it’s important for us to acknowledge that the research does not provide strong support for its use as a standalone treatment for cough. This means that while echinacea might assist in some cases, it is not the most potent option available according to the current evidence.
The findings indicated that although echinacea was examined across multiple trials, the evidence supporting its effectiveness was classified as limited. In fact, it showed a slight improvement in alleviating cough symptoms, but it did not stand out as a major player compared to other herbal remedies like Andrographis paniculata or ivy-based preparations, which demonstrated stronger evidence of effectiveness.
While we can appreciate the interest in echinacea for cold symptoms, it’s important for us to acknowledge that the research does not provide strong support for its use as a standalone treatment for cough. This means that while echinacea might assist in some cases, it is not the most potent option available according to the current evidence.
4
We investigated the effectiveness of echinacea preparations in preventing and treating the common cold. Our exploration included 24 double-blind trials with nearly 4,700 participants, comparing different echinacea products to placebo treatments.
The trials varied in quality, with some showing low risk of bias while others had high risk. Unfortunately, despite our thorough analysis, we found no significant benefits of echinacea for preventing or treating colds. Specifically, trials aimed at prevention did not show a statistical advantage, although there was a slight trend suggesting a possible 10% to 20% risk reduction.
In terms of treatment, only one of the seven trials showed echinacea having any effect on the duration of colds. Additionally, the number of participants leaving the studies due to adverse effects was similar between echinacea and placebo groups. Overall, we conclude that echinacea products haven’t convincingly demonstrated effectiveness for cold relief, even if there are faint hints of potential benefit.
The trials varied in quality, with some showing low risk of bias while others had high risk. Unfortunately, despite our thorough analysis, we found no significant benefits of echinacea for preventing or treating colds. Specifically, trials aimed at prevention did not show a statistical advantage, although there was a slight trend suggesting a possible 10% to 20% risk reduction.
In terms of treatment, only one of the seven trials showed echinacea having any effect on the duration of colds. Additionally, the number of participants leaving the studies due to adverse effects was similar between echinacea and placebo groups. Overall, we conclude that echinacea products haven’t convincingly demonstrated effectiveness for cold relief, even if there are faint hints of potential benefit.
7
We conducted a detailed study to understand how echinacea affects the common cold by comparing various groups of participants with new-onset colds. Our research included participants who either received no pills, were given placebo pills without knowing, were given pills containing echinacea without knowing, or were informed that they were taking echinacea.
The results showed that those who were in the no-pill group experienced longer and more severe symptoms compared to those who received any form of pill. Interestingly, for participants who believed in the effectiveness of echinacea, their colds were noticeably shorter and less severe, regardless of whether they took real echinacea or a placebo.
However, it’s important to note that the differences in illness duration and severity among the groups were not statistically significant. So while there seems to be some benefit from taking pills, the impact of echinacea itself was not clearly established. Our findings highlight the importance of personal beliefs in treatment, suggesting that how we feel about a remedy can influence our recovery.
The results showed that those who were in the no-pill group experienced longer and more severe symptoms compared to those who received any form of pill. Interestingly, for participants who believed in the effectiveness of echinacea, their colds were noticeably shorter and less severe, regardless of whether they took real echinacea or a placebo.
However, it’s important to note that the differences in illness duration and severity among the groups were not statistically significant. So while there seems to be some benefit from taking pills, the impact of echinacea itself was not clearly established. Our findings highlight the importance of personal beliefs in treatment, suggesting that how we feel about a remedy can influence our recovery.
References
- Declerck K, Novo CP, Grielens L, Van Camp G, Suter A, et al. Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench treatment of monocytes promotes tonic interferon signaling, increased innate immunity gene expression and DNA repeat hypermethylated silencing of endogenous retroviral sequences. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2021;21:141. 10.1186/s12906-021-03310-5
- Weishaupt R, Bächler A, Feldhaus S, Lang G, Klein P, et al. Safety and Dose-Dependent Effects of for the Treatment of Acute Cold Episodes in Children: A Multicenter, Randomized, Open-Label Clinical Trial. Children (Basel). 2020;7. 10.3390/children7120292
- Wagner L, Cramer H, Klose P, Lauche R, Gass F, et al. Herbal Medicine for Cough: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Forsch Komplementmed. 2015;22:359. 10.1159/000442111
- Ross SM. Echinacea purpurea: A Proprietary Extract of Echinacea purpurea Is Shown to be Safe and Effective in the Prevention of the Common Cold. Holist Nurs Pract. 2016;30:54. 10.1097/HNP.0000000000000130
- Barth A, Hovhannisyan A, Jamalyan K, Narimanyan M. Antitussive effect of a fixed combination of Justicia adhatoda, Echinacea purpurea and Eleutherococcus senticosus extracts in patients with acute upper respiratory tract infection: A comparative, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Phytomedicine. 2015;22:1195. 10.1016/j.phymed.2015.10.001
- Karsch-Völk M, Barrett B, Linde K. Echinacea for preventing and treating the common cold. JAMA. 2015;313:618. 10.1001/jama.2014.17145
- Karsch-Völk M, Barrett B, Kiefer D, Bauer R, Ardjomand-Woelkart K, et al. Echinacea for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014;2014:CD000530. 10.1002/14651858.CD000530.pub3
- Schapowal A. Efficacy and safety of Echinaforce® in respiratory tract infections. Wien Med Wochenschr. 2013;163:102. 10.1007/s10354-012-0166-0
- Jawad M, Schoop R, Suter A, Klein P, Eccles R. Safety and Efficacy Profile of Echinacea purpurea to Prevent Common Cold Episodes: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012;2012:841315.
- Barrett B, Brown R, Rakel D, Rabago D, Marchand L, et al. Placebo effects and the common cold: a randomized controlled trial. Ann Fam Med. 2011;9:312. 10.1370/afm.1250
- Mathes A, Bellanger R. Herbs and other dietary supplements: current regulations and recommendations for use to maintain health in the management of the common cold or other related infectious respiratory illnesses. J Pharm Pract. 2010;23:117. 10.1177/0897190009358711
- Arroll B. Common cold. BMJ Clin Evid. 2011;2011.
- Yakoot M, Salem A. Efficacy and safety of a multiherbal formula with vitamin C and zinc (Immumax) in the management of the common cold. Int J Gen Med. 2011;4:45. 10.2147/IJGM.S16266
- Nahas R, Balla A. Complementary and alternative medicine for prevention and treatment of the common cold. Can Fam Physician. 2011;57:31.
- Bieuvelet S, Seyrig C, Leclerc C. [A preliminary survey on the interest of eating probiotics, cypress and echinacea to prevent the apparition of winter infections]. Phytotherapie (Paris). 2011;9:120. 10.1007/s10298-011-0613-x
- Barrett B, Brown R, Rakel D, Mundt M, Bone K, et al. Echinacea for treating the common cold: a randomized trial. Ann Intern Med. 2010;153:769. 10.7326/0003-4819-153-12-201012210-00003
