Medical Researches
Moderately Effective
Based on 4 Researches
We explored the anti-arthritic effects of cichoric acid extract from Echinacea purpurea using a collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model in rats. This study involved orally administering different doses of the extract over a period of 28 days to assess its effectiveness in reducing symptoms.
Measurements were taken for paw swelling and body weight, alongside weighing organs like the thymus and spleen to evaluate any associated changes. The results were promising, showing that all doses of the cichoric acid extract significantly reduced swelling in the rats' paws, improved their body weight, and lowered the organ index compared to untreated arthritis rats.
Additionally, the levels of inflammatory markers in the blood, like TNFα, IL-1β, and PGE-2, decreased notably after treatment with the Echinacea extract. Histopathological analysis further indicated that there was marked anti-arthritic activity, particularly at the highest dosage of 32 mg/kg, where levels of inflammatory proteins in the synovium (joint tissue) also decreased.
Overall, the findings suggest that cichoric acid may hold potential as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
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Echinacea shows promise for OAProtective effect of ethanolic extract of Echinacea purpurea contained nanoparticles on meniscal/ligamentous injury induced osteoarthritis in obese male rats.
Effectively addresses arthritis treatment
We investigated the impact of Echinacea purpurea, a popular medicinal plant, on osteoarthritis (OA), particularly in the context of obesity. The study involved using chitosan-silica nanoparticles to encapsulate the beneficial compounds of Echinacea and assess their effects in a rat model of OA induced by obesity and joint injuries. This innovative approach aimed to enhance the extract's efficacy and potential benefits for joint health.
Our findings revealed that the encapsulated extract, known as Nano-EE, showed impressive results. After treatment, the rats experienced reduced levels of inflammatory markers and pain associated with OA. We observed decreased expression of certain harmful cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases, which are linked to joint degradation, while beneficial collagen production in the cartilage improved. Furthermore, we found Nano-EE provided these benefits at lower doses compared to the unencapsulated Echinacea extract.
Overall, our research suggests that Echinacea purpurea encapsulated in nanoparticles could be an effective strategy in managing OA symptoms, especially in individuals dealing with obesity. This exciting development opens doors for new treatments that may help ease discomfort and improve mobility for those suffering from this chronic condition.
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Knee OA relief through supplementsThe effect and safety of highly standardized Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) extract supplementation on inflammation and chronic pain in NSAIDs poor responders. A pilot study in subjects with knee arthrosis.
Limited isolation of Echinacea's effects
This study aimed to explore the impact of ginger and Echinacea extracts on chronic pain and inflammation in knee osteoarthritis. It involved a group of 15 individuals who had not responded well to traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Each participant took a daily supplement containing 25 mg of ginger and 5 mg of Echinacea for 30 days.
We observed some positive changes following the supplementation. Pain levels, measured using the Tegner Lysholm Knee Scoring system, improved significantly, alongside enhancements in overall health-related quality of life as indicated by the ShortForm36 (SF-36). Participants also experienced a notable reduction in knee circumference.
However, while the study highlighted the benefits of ginger and Echinacea combined, it didn't isolate the effects of Echinacea alone. This makes it difficult to determine how much Echinacea specifically contributes to relieving arthritis symptoms. Nonetheless, the findings suggest that standardized ginger and Echinacea extracts may offer benefits for those suffering from knee osteoarthritis, although further research is needed to clarify Echinacea's distinct role.
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Echinacea shows potential for arthritisThe effectiveness of Echinacea extract or composite glucosamine, chondroitin and methyl sulfonyl methane supplements on acute and chronic rheumatoid arthritis rat model.
Combination supplement comparison emphasized
We explored the effects of Echinacea and a combination of glucosamine, chondroitin, and methyl sulfonyl methane on arthritis in female rats. Over a period of 15 days, we administered these supplements to rats with either acute or chronic arthritis induced by bacterial proteins.
Our findings revealed that both Echinacea and the composite supplement reduced markers associated with rheumatoid arthritis, such as anti-CCP2, C-reactive protein, and rheumatoid factor. In both treated groups, these markers significantly decreased compared to untreated arthritic rats, indicating that the supplements may have a beneficial impact on arthritis symptoms.
However, when we compared the severity of joint issues, Echinacea-treated rats still showed some degree of cartilage and bone damage. In contrast, the rats receiving the composite supplement exhibited milder manifestations of joint damage. This suggests that while Echinacea has potential benefits, the composite supplement may offer superior results regarding joint health.
Overall, our study highlights Echinacea’s role in treating arthritis, but it also brings attention to the advantages of using composite supplements. Further research is needed to determine optimal dosing and duration for preventive effects against arthritis caused by bacterial proteins.
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