Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 16 Researches
6.6
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 130 Reviews
8.1
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Veg Capsules
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Total Carbohydrate
< 1 g
< 1%**
Echinacea Root (Echinacea purpurea)
800 mg
†
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
Prevents common cold
217 people found this helpful
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.
Read More
10
No viruses since use
24 people found this helpful
I've been taking echinacea for 2.5 years and haven’t had any viruses, not even the common cold. Before I started, I often got bronchitis every winter, with a lingering cough. I'm thrilled to be virus-free, and my husband has experienced the same results.
Read More
9
Boosts immunity well
13 people found this helpful
During the cold season, this is excellent! A great natural remedy for boosting immunity.
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 130 Reviews
8.1
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Prevents common cold
217 people found this helpful
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.
Read More
10
No viruses since use
24 people found this helpful
I've been taking echinacea for 2.5 years and haven’t had any viruses, not even the common cold. Before I started, I often got bronchitis every winter, with a lingering cough. I'm thrilled to be virus-free, and my husband has experienced the same results.
Read More
9
Boosts immunity well
13 people found this helpful
During the cold season, this is excellent! A great natural remedy for boosting immunity.
Read More
10
Immuno stimulant
9 people found this helpful
An excellent immuno stimulant! I take it during the cold season as a precaution. We don’t use it constantly, as echinacea boosts the immune system. The family first replenishes vitamin deficiencies, then takes echinacea. It’s vital to reinvigorate the body before stimulating it.
Read More
9
Improved immunity
7 people found this helpful
Echinacea is an herb claimed to prevent and treat infectious diseases like the common cold and influenza. It is popular for boosting immunity during winter when colds are prevalent. It enhances white blood cell activity, helps prevent upper respiratory infections, reduces inflammation, and promotes recovery from symptoms.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Works effectively
6 people found this helpful
This product definitely works! If I feel a sore throat coming on, I take echinacea, and within a day, it's as if the symptoms vanish. I can continue without needing other medications, and I feel well enough to go about my day without fatigue.
9
Strengthens immunity
3 people found this helpful
This is a fantastic product that should be in every home medicine cabinet. It helps with common colds and boosts the immune system, making me feel more energetic. When I sense a cold coming on, I double the dosage and feel better by the next day. It's preferable to pills. Wishing everyone good health and happiness.
10
Prevented complications
6 people found this helpful
I took echinacea for four months due to my chronic sinusitis, and I haven't had to go to the hospital since! It used to be that any common cold or virus brought about complications, but this time I'm confident in its effectiveness for preventive health.
9
Prevents common cold
217 people found this helpful
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.
10
No viruses since use
24 people found this helpful
I've been taking echinacea for 2.5 years and haven’t had any viruses, not even the common cold. Before I started, I often got bronchitis every winter, with a lingering cough. I'm thrilled to be virus-free, and my husband has experienced the same results.
9
Natural remedy
3 people found this helpful
Echinacea is a staple in my first aid kit. My entire family takes it during the cold season, including children. It’s preferable to questionable immunomodulators, featuring natural ingredients. You can open the capsule to brew it as tea. The large package offers great value!
9
Maintains health
3 people found this helpful
This excellent echinacea is a staple in my home, particularly in autumn and winter. A 250-count package lasts the whole family as we take it as needed. We often combine it with Vitamin C, D3, zinc, and black elderberry, which helps maintain our health and accelerates recovery from common colds.
9
Effective remedy
3 people found this helpful
We live without visiting pharmacies! This natural replacement for pharmaceutical immunomodulators is effective. At the first sign of a common cold, I take 2 capsules over the initial two days, and the symptoms recede. I also ensure I maintain my intake of vitamins S, D, and zinc!
10
Cold-free years
4 people found this helpful
I have taken this Echinacea product alongside vitamins for five years and have not had a common cold since. It comes highly recommended.
7.5
Prevented worsening
5 people found this helpful
Whenever I feel my throat is weak, I take two echinacea tablets. I find that it prevents my condition from worsening and allows me to manage my health without resorting to hospital visits.
7.5
Natural antibiotic
4 people found this helpful
Taking Echinacea at the onset of cold-like symptoms helps prevent the common cold from worsening. It's now a staple in my household medicine cabinet.
9
Effective against colds
4 people found this helpful
I take Echinacea daily during flu season and increase the dose at the first signs of a cold. It remarkably supports my immune system against the common cold.
7.5
Not a cure-all
4 people found this helpful
Echinacea isn't a cure-all, but it effectively helps us fight off the common cold. I pair it with zinc and vitamins for better results.
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.
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
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.
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.
4
Echinacea's mixed effects on colds
We sought to understand whether Echinacea products could effectively prevent or lessen the duration of the common cold compared to a placebo. Our exploration involved examining multiple trials focused on these herbal remedies and their claimed benefits.
We found that, despite popular belief, individual trials did not show a significant association between Echinacea and the prevention of the common cold. However, an exploratory meta-analysis hinted at a small reduction in the incidence of colds among those using Echinacea.
When it came to treatment, the results were quite consistent; there was no clear evidence that Echinacea could shorten the duration of colds once they had started. Overall, while some people may still choose Echinacea for its potential benefits, the results suggest that it isn't a reliable solution for preventing or hastening recovery from the common cold.
We found that, despite popular belief, individual trials did not show a significant association between Echinacea and the prevention of the common cold. However, an exploratory meta-analysis hinted at a small reduction in the incidence of colds among those using Echinacea.
When it came to treatment, the results were quite consistent; there was no clear evidence that Echinacea could shorten the duration of colds once they had started. Overall, while some people may still choose Echinacea for its potential benefits, the results suggest that it isn't a reliable solution for preventing or hastening recovery from the common cold.
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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD000530.pub3
- Schapowal A. Efficacy and safety of Echinaforce® in respiratory tract infections. Wien Med Wochenschr. 2013;163:102. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi:10.7326/0003-4819-153-12-201012210-00003
