NOW Supplements Echinacea
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Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Veg Capsules
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Total Carbohydrate
< 1 g
< 1%**
Echinacea Root (Echinacea purpurea)
800 mg

The product is found useful for the following medical conditions

Common Cold details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 16 Researches
6.6
USERS' SCORE
Excellent
Based on 130 Reviews
9
9
Echinacea's promise against colds
Echinacea purpurea: A Proprietary Extract of Echinacea purpurea Is Shown to be Safe and Effective in the Prevention of the Common Cold.
Most Relevant Research
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.
9.5
Prevents common cold
Most Useful Review
Excellent echinacea regarding the volume and price! I take it to prevent colds and to strengthen my body when unwell. I’ve tried other brands but didn't notice a difference; I take whichever is available. I start at the slightest symptoms of a common cold, and it helps me recover quickly.

Cold details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
No researches found
N/A
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 19 Reviews
8.9
9.5
Nips colds quickly
Most Useful Review
Works brilliantly. Whenever I sense a cold coming, I take 2 capsules 3-4 times a day until the symptoms subside. I've previously used Zicam, but the cold always returned when I ceased taking it. Echinacea seems to nip it in the bud within two days. Sometimes, I also take it with Vitamin C and fresh garlic. This, plus rest and plenty of fluids, makes the cold disappear. I will certainly keep this in my medicine cabinet from now on.

Chronic Cough details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
No researches found
N/A
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 5 Reviews
8.8
10
Effective post-chemo
Most Useful Review
Amazing! Perfect for the white cells returning quickly after chemotherapy, as you lose them and are more prone to infections. After just one day, my mum didn’t experience the usual side effects after a chemo session. She has had no runny nose, cough, or infections. Thank you, iHerb.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 2 Researches
8.5
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 5 Reviews
8.7
8
Echinacea may support immune response
In vitro effects of echinacea and ginseng on natural killer and antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity in healthy subjects and chronic fatigue syndrome or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients.
Most Relevant Research
We investigated how extracts of echinacea could enhance immune function in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. Blood samples from healthy individuals and patients with chronic fatigue syndrome or AIDS were analyzed.

Using specially prepared white blood cells, we looked at two key immune responses: natural killer (NK) cell activity and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). Interestingly, both echinacea and ginseng showed a considerable boost in immune responses when given at certain concentrations.

Specifically, both herbs improved NK cell activity and ADCC across all groups tested. This suggests that echinacea, alongside ginseng, has the potential to support the immune system in those dealing with chronic fatigue, as well as in individuals who typically have lower immune function.

Overall, these findings point to echinacea’s promising role as a supportive treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome, particularly in enhancing aspects of the immune system that might be underperforming.
9.5
Immune system boost
Most Useful Review
Echinacea boosts my immune system; I no longer feel fatigue and it has no side effects. It's easy to swallow.

Ear Infection details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Likely Ineffective
Based on 2 Researches
4.5
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 13 Reviews
8.7
1
Echinacea ineffective for ear infections
Echinacea purpurea and osteopathic manipulative treatment in children with recurrent otitis media: a randomized controlled trial.
Most Relevant Research
We conducted a study to explore whether Echinacea purpurea, a popular herbal remedy, could help prevent ear infections in children prone to recurrent otitis media. The research involved a randomized, placebo-controlled trial where ninety young children between 12 and 60 months participated. They were divided into four groups, either receiving Echinacea with or without osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), or placebos for both.

Over six months, we observed that treating colds with Echinacea did not significantly reduce the risk of developing acute otitis media. In fact, there is some indication that it may actually increase the risk of these infections. Similarly, the osteopathic manipulative treatments offered during the study did not provide any significant benefits in preventing ear infections either.

It's essential to take these findings seriously, as they suggest that Echinacea may not be the effective solution many parents hope for when dealing with their child's recurrent ear issues.
9.5
Quick relief
Most Useful Review
Taking this at the first sign of a cold gives immediate relief. Unlike chemical cold remedies, this herbal option offers peace of mind.

Influenza details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 14 Researches
7.8
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 16 Reviews
8.7
9
Echinacea shows promise against influenza
Ethanolic Extract from (L.) Moench Inhibits Influenza A/B and Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection : Preventive Agent for Viral Respiratory Infections.
Most Relevant Research
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.
9.5
Good for recovery
Most Useful Review
I take echinacea in autumn and spring as a preventative measure. At the first sign of flu symptoms, I take three tablets before bed with vitamin C, which relieves my malaise by morning. Echinacea enhances immunity and battles viruses and infections effectively.

Swollen Lymph Nodes details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
No researches found
N/A
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
8.7
9.5
Quick relief
Most Useful Review
As soon as I experience cold symptoms, I promptly begin taking two capsules, two or three times daily. By the second day, I notice an improvement in my health; the sore throat diminishes and the illness subsides. I also recommend this for lymphadenitis, as my lymph nodes become quite swollen during a cold, causing pain that radiates to my ears. However, after taking echinacea, this discomfort swiftly vanishes.

Allergies details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 4 Researches
8
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 16 Reviews
8.6
9
Echinacea may alleviate allergies
Echinacea purpurea water extracts suppress the release of chemical mediators from mast cells.
Most Relevant Research
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.
8.8
Effective for allergies
Most Useful Review
On a friend's recommendation, I've long wanted to try echinacea. She spoke enthusiastically about how it helps her family with colds all year round. I chose this brand for its vegan capsules. When I first feel unwell, I take two capsules 3-4 times a day along with vitamin C, which helps me recover quickly! Just be cautious if you're prone to allergies. Fortunately, I did not experience any reactions, despite my own allergy history.

Back Pain details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
No researches found
N/A
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 2 Reviews
8.6
9.5
Alleviated back pain
Most Useful Review
I ordered this supplement on my doctor's advice for my back pain. After a couple of days, I noticed improvements; the headaches linked to my neck and back pain nearly disappeared. I take one tablet each morning after breakfast, and it doesn't cause nausea. There have been no side effects so far. I highly recommend it.

Cold Sores details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
No researches found
N/A
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 12 Reviews
8.6
10
Miraculous immunity boost
Most Useful Review
I have been taking echinacea for 2 and a half years. Since I started taking it regularly, I have not had any viruses, not even cold sores. Before echinacea, I was prone to bronchitis every winter/spring. Now, I'm thrilled to be virus-free. My husband experiences the same results. It has built up my immune system, and I believe everyone should take it!

Rash details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
No researches found
N/A
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 2 Reviews
8.6
9.5
Effective for rash
Most Useful Review
I have been taking one capsule a day for nearly a year, and I haven't had herpes on my lips this year. Previously, I experienced a rash on my lips two or three times annually. This result is excellent, and it genuinely helps strengthen my immune system.

Sore Throat details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
No researches found
N/A
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
8.6
8.8
Prevents illness
Most Useful Review
Works for me. Whenever I catch a virus, my first symptom is a sore throat. So, I began taking one Echinacea capsule plus a vitamin C tablet twice daily until it resolves, and I haven’t fallen ill since. If I take this regimen too late and the cold progresses, I switch to Zinc throat candies; this keeps the virus at bay, and all I experience is a runny nose. I've read this remedy works for some more than others, so one must try it to see if it benefits them.

Liver Disease details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 14 Researches
8
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 2 Reviews
8.5
9
Echinacea's potential against liver cancer
Echinacea purpurea polysaccharide intervene in hepatocellular carcinoma via modulation of gut microbiota to inhibit TLR4/NF-κB pathway.
Most Relevant Research
We explored the potential of Echinacea purpurea polysaccharides (EPP) in combating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a common form of liver cancer. The study showcased how EPP can effectively reduce liver damage associated with HCC, hinder tumor growth, and even encourage cancer cell death.

After treatment with EPP, our observations revealed an increase in beneficial gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids like propionic and butyric acids. This shift in gut microbiota plays a crucial role in strengthening the gut barrier and preventing harmful substances, like lipopolysaccharides (LPS), from leaking into the bloodstream.

Furthermore, the study demonstrated that controlling LPS leakage could inhibit key inflammatory pathways linked to HCC progression. This is significant because reducing inflammation can potentially slow down tumor growth. Overall, our findings suggest that EPP helps regulate the body's systems through gut health, thereby impacting liver cancer outcomes positively.

These insights open up promising avenues for utilizing Echinacea's natural properties in liver disease treatment, particularly in HCC.
8.8
Boosts immunity
Most Useful Review
Echinacea has significantly bolstered my immunity and cleansed my lymphatic system and blood. It combats viruses, bacteria, and fungi, effectively activating my body's defences against illness. I've noticed positive effects on my bronchial and pulmonary health, and it helps with otitis and sinusitis. I take one capsule daily.

Flu details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
No researches found
N/A
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 2 Reviews
8.5
8.8
Eases cold symptoms
Most Useful Review
Works great. Whenever I sense a cold coming on, I take 2 capsules 3-4 times a day until the symptoms subside. I've previously used Zicam, but the cold always returned when I stopped. The Echinacea seems to nip it in the bud. Usually, I take it for two days before the cold vanishes. Sometimes, I take it alongside Vitamin C and fresh garlic. This, coupled with rest and plenty of fluids, makes the cold disappear. I'll certainly be keeping this in my medicine cabinet from now on.

Autoimmune Disorder details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 3 Researches
7.3
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 8 Reviews
7.3
8
Echinacea boosts NK cells in mice
Dietary consumption of Echinacea by mice afflicted with autoimmune (type I) diabetes: effect of consuming the herb on hemopoietic and immune cell dynamics.
Most Relevant Research
We investigated how Echinacea, a popular herbal remedy known for its immune-boosting properties, affects mice with autoimmune diabetes, specifically using the NOD mouse model that naturally develops Type 1 diabetes. Our focus was on the herb's impact on NK cells—key players in the immune system that are often deficient in this condition.

Through our study, we discovered that feeding Echinacea to these mice resulted in a significant increase in NK cell numbers in both the spleen and the bone marrow. This enhancement occurred regardless of whether the mice received the herb for a short (days) or long (months) period. Additionally, we observed early changes in other immune cell types, suggesting that Echinacea has an immediate, though temporary, effect on immune dynamics.

Importantly, our findings indicate that Echinacea consumption did not lead to any negative effects on the immune or hemopoietic systems in the mice. This consistent increase in NK cells could represent a new avenue for treating Type 1 diabetes, potentially offering a fresh approach to managing this challenging autoimmune disorder.
9.5
Preventive benefits
Most Useful Review
I took echinacea for four months last year, two capsules a day, to combat my chronic sinusitis. Previously, I frequently ended up in hospital due to complications from colds or viruses. However, since using echinacea, I have not needed to go back at all. This year, I plan to continue taking it as a preventative measure.
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