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.
Read More
9
Echinacea shows effectiveness against influenza
Effect of an Echinacea-Based Hot Drink Versus Oseltamivir in Influenza Treatment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Double-Dummy, Multicenter, Noninferiority Clinical Trial.
We conducted a well-structured clinical trial to scrutinize the effectiveness of a new Echinacea formulation, named Echinaforce Hotdrink, against oseltamivir, a widely recognized antiviral medication for influenza. This study involved 473 patients who had early symptoms of the flu, allowing us to compare how each treatment influenced recovery.
Participants were given either 5 days of oseltamivir followed by placebo or a 10-day regimen of Echinaforce Hotdrink. By evaluating the proportion of patients who reported their symptoms as absent or mild, we aimed to determine if Echinacea could hold its own against the established antiviral treatment.
Remarkably, we found that Echinaforce Hotdrink was comparable in effectiveness to oseltamivir. Not only did it demonstrate a similar level of symptom relief, but it also seemed to come with a lower risk of complications and adverse effects. This positions Echinacea as a promising option for those seeking natural self-care solutions when facing influenza.
Read More
9
Echinacea's potential against influenza
Anti-viral properties and mode of action of standardized Echinacea purpurea extract against highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1, H7N7) and swine-origin H1N1 (S-OIV).
We delved into the potential of Echinacea purpurea, particularly its standardized extract, to combat influenza viruses. Given concerns about the effectiveness and availability of traditional antiviral treatments like vaccines and medications, especially during outbreaks, our study aimed to understand how this herbal remedy might serve as a helpful alternative.
Through our research, we found that Echinacea was effective in inactivating various strains of the influenza virus, including the highly pathogenic avian influenza and swine-origin H1N1. The extract worked at doses that were close to what is usually recommended for oral intake, showing that even lower concentrations could also have a significant effect.
Interestingly, one of the key findings was that Echinacea appears to disrupt the virus’s ability to enter cells. This means that taking Echinacea could potentially prevent the virus from spreading within the body. Moreover, unlike some antiviral drugs that can lead to resistant strains of the virus, no resistant variants appeared when testing Echinacea. This suggests that it might offer a reliable alternative without the risk of creating drug-resistant viruses.
Overall, we believe that incorporating a standardized Echinacea preparation into flu prevention strategies could be a valuable and cost-effective addition to existing options. It provides another tool in our fight against influenza, reinforcing the importance of exploring natural remedies alongside traditional treatments.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Good for recovery
1 people found this helpful
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.
Read More
9
Stimulates immunity
Echinacea is effective for various ailments, including colds and influenza. It stimulates immunity and aids in treating infections, showing good results against several bacteria and inflammatory conditions.
Read More
9
Strong immunity boost
Excellent for preventing influenza and acute respiratory viral infections. It is great for maintaining immunity, particularly during colds. We use it for the entire family!
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.
Read More
9
Echinacea boosts immune response
Comparative immune response and pathogenicity of the H9N2 avian influenza virus after administration of Immulant, based on Echinacea and Nigella sativa, in stressed chickens.
We investigated how a commercial product called Immulant, which contains Echinacea and Nigella sativa, impacts the immune response to the H9N2 avian influenza virus in stressed chickens. The study involved several experimental groups including vaccinated and non-vaccinated chickens, some of which were also given dexamethasone to induce stress, while others received Immulant.
After administering Immulant for six weeks following vaccination, we observed significant improvements in various health markers compared to those chickens that did not receive it. Specifically, Immulant showed promise in boosting the immune response after vaccination, enhancing protection against the virus, and reducing stress-induced effects.
The findings suggest that incorporating such herbal treatments could be beneficial for poultry health, particularly in enhancing vaccine efficacy in stressful conditions. This could be an important consideration for poultry farmers looking to bolster their flocks' defenses against influenza.
Read More
9
Echinacea reduces influenza complications
Prevention of influenza virus induced bacterial superinfection by standardized Echinacea purpurea, via regulation of surface receptor expression in human bronchial epithelial cells.
We assessed how Echinacea purpurea, an herbal medicine, affects influenza virus A infections, especially regarding bacterial infections that can follow. Our focus was on the way Echinacea might help mitigate complications caused by influenza, such as pneumonia or bronchitis, which can occur when the viral infection makes the airways more susceptible to bacteria.
Through our research, we learned that when bronchial cells are infected with the influenza virus, they become more attractive to harmful bacteria like Haemophilus influenzae and Staphylococcus aureus. This happens due to an increase in certain surface receptors on the cells, which are like welcoming signs for these bacteria. However, when we introduced Echinacea, we observed a significant reduction in the expression of these receptors, thus preventing bacteria from adhering to the cells.
Additionally, Echinacea appeared to help keep inflammation in check. By reducing the levels of inflammatory markers and certain pathways that lead to inflammation, it potentially lowers the risk of severe respiratory complications. Our findings suggest that Echinacea purpurea could play a crucial role not only in supporting the immune response against influenza but also in reducing the chances of secondary bacterial infections.
Read More
9
Echinacea shows effectiveness against influenza
Effect of an Echinacea-Based Hot Drink Versus Oseltamivir in Influenza Treatment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Double-Dummy, Multicenter, Noninferiority Clinical Trial.
We conducted a well-structured clinical trial to scrutinize the effectiveness of a new Echinacea formulation, named Echinaforce Hotdrink, against oseltamivir, a widely recognized antiviral medication for influenza. This study involved 473 patients who had early symptoms of the flu, allowing us to compare how each treatment influenced recovery.
Participants were given either 5 days of oseltamivir followed by placebo or a 10-day regimen of Echinaforce Hotdrink. By evaluating the proportion of patients who reported their symptoms as absent or mild, we aimed to determine if Echinacea could hold its own against the established antiviral treatment.
Remarkably, we found that Echinaforce Hotdrink was comparable in effectiveness to oseltamivir. Not only did it demonstrate a similar level of symptom relief, but it also seemed to come with a lower risk of complications and adverse effects. This positions Echinacea as a promising option for those seeking natural self-care solutions when facing influenza.
Read More
9
Echinacea's potential against influenza
Anti-viral properties and mode of action of standardized Echinacea purpurea extract against highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1, H7N7) and swine-origin H1N1 (S-OIV).
We delved into the potential of Echinacea purpurea, particularly its standardized extract, to combat influenza viruses. Given concerns about the effectiveness and availability of traditional antiviral treatments like vaccines and medications, especially during outbreaks, our study aimed to understand how this herbal remedy might serve as a helpful alternative.
Through our research, we found that Echinacea was effective in inactivating various strains of the influenza virus, including the highly pathogenic avian influenza and swine-origin H1N1. The extract worked at doses that were close to what is usually recommended for oral intake, showing that even lower concentrations could also have a significant effect.
Interestingly, one of the key findings was that Echinacea appears to disrupt the virus’s ability to enter cells. This means that taking Echinacea could potentially prevent the virus from spreading within the body. Moreover, unlike some antiviral drugs that can lead to resistant strains of the virus, no resistant variants appeared when testing Echinacea. This suggests that it might offer a reliable alternative without the risk of creating drug-resistant viruses.
Overall, we believe that incorporating a standardized Echinacea preparation into flu prevention strategies could be a valuable and cost-effective addition to existing options. It provides another tool in our fight against influenza, reinforcing the importance of exploring natural remedies alongside traditional treatments.
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.
Read More
9
Stimulates immunity
Echinacea is effective for various ailments, including colds and influenza. It stimulates immunity and aids in treating infections, showing good results against several bacteria and inflammatory conditions.
Read More
9
Strong immunity boost
Excellent for preventing influenza and acute respiratory viral infections. It is great for maintaining immunity, particularly during colds. We use it for the entire family!
Read More
9
Effective remedy
I discovered Echinacea, a common cold medicine, and tried it out of curiosity. When I felt a cold coming on, I took it several times, and the symptoms vanished immediately. I continued to take it during the influenza epidemic, and it worked effectively.
Read More
9
Rapid symptom relief
It really works! As soon as I sense a cold about to hit, I take 4 capsules twice a day. Within two days, all symptoms disappear, and I experience influenza much more calmly.
Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. Caused by influenza viruses, it can lead to mild to severe illness and can result in hospitalization or even death, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and individuals with certain health conditions. Symptoms typically include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches, and fatigue. It's important to note that while many people refer to common colds as the flu, the flu is generally more severe and lasts longer.
Preventing influenza is possible through vaccination, which is recommended annually as the viruses can change from year to year. Other preventive measures include practicing good hygiene, such as regular hand washing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. If someone does contract the flu, antiviral medications may be prescribed by a healthcare provider, particularly if the treatment begins within the first few days of illness. Understanding the nature of influenza and the importance of preventive measures can help individuals protect themselves and their communities during flu season.
Echinacea is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family, commonly known for its medicinal properties. There are several species within this genus, but Echinacea purpurea is perhaps the most well-known and widely used, particularly in herbal supplements aimed at supporting immune health. Traditionally, Echinacea has been used by Native American tribes for its purported benefits in fighting infections and reducing symptoms of colds and respiratory illnesses. The plant is characterized by its distinctive purple cone-shaped flowers and is also cultivated for ornamental purposes.
In contemporary use, Echinacea is typically available in various forms, including capsules, teas, extracts, and tinctures. While some studies suggest that Echinacea may help reduce the duration and severity of colds when taken at the first signs of illness, evidence remains mixed, and more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. As always, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially for individuals with allergies to plants in the daisy family or those taking specific medications.
Echinacea, a popular herbal remedy derived from the Echinacea purpurea plant, is often touted for its potential immune-boosting properties. Some studies suggest that Echinacea may help reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms, though the evidence is less clear regarding its effectiveness against influenza specifically. A meta-analysis of several studies indicated that Echinacea could have a modest benefit in alleviating cold symptoms, but results regarding flu symptoms are mixed. It's important to note that while some individuals may find Echinacea helpful, others may not experience noticeable effects, and more research is needed to determine its efficacy against influenza.
If you're considering using Echinacea as a preventative measure or treatment for flu-like symptoms, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. While Echinacea is generally considered safe for short-term use, informed choices about its application can help ensure it complements your overall health strategy during flu season.
Based on user reviews, individuals often report experiencing results from taking Echinacea within one to two days of starting treatment for influenza. For instance, one user notes that their symptoms disappeared within two days of taking the supplement at the first sign of illness Read Review. Others mention that they feel relief by the morning after taking Echinacea before bed Read Review.
Many users emphasize the importance of early intervention, suggesting that taking Echinacea at the onset of symptoms can significantly reduce the severity and duration of illness. For example, another user observed that the capsule regimen effectively addressed symptoms rapidly during a flu epidemic Read Review. Overall, while results can vary, the consensus is that Echinacea is most effective when taken promptly at the first symptoms of influenza.
Emerging research suggests that Echinacea may indeed play a role in supporting the immune response against influenza. A variety of studies indicate that Echinacea purpurea exhibits antiviral properties, effectively preventing the entry of influenza viruses into host cells [1]. For instance, a clinical trial comparing a new Echinacea formulation to oseltamivir, a well-known antiviral medication, found that Echinacea provided comparable symptom relief for flu symptoms, indicating its potential effectiveness [8]. Furthermore, children taking Echinacea experienced fewer respiratory infections and required fewer antibiotics compared to a control group [4].
However, while these findings are promising, researchers caution against solely relying on Echinacea as a standalone treatment for influenza. It appears most beneficial as a complementary therapy, enhancing overall immune function and potentially reducing the risk of secondary infections when combined with other treatments [7]. While Echinacea shows potential in limiting the spread of influenza in controlled settings, the individual effectiveness may vary depending on preparation and dosing. As always, consult healthcare professionals before incorporating any new supplement into your health regimen. Further studies are necessary to fully understand Echinacea's mechanisms and optimize its use in influenza prevention and treatment.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in their cold and flu symptoms after taking Echinacea. For instance, one user noted that by taking three tablets at the first sign of flu symptoms, they found relief by morning, feeling a marked reduction in malaise Read Review. Others echoed similar sentiments, with several stating that Echinacea effectively diminished their symptoms within a couple of days, often before they escalated into more severe illness Read Review.
In addition to symptom relief, users also highlighted Echinacea's role in overall immunity enhancement. Many reported that regular use helped stave off infections, particularly during cold and flu seasons Read Review. Some reviews suggest that Echinacea not only aids in the treatment of the immediate symptoms but also supports the body's defenses against future infections by boosting immune function Read Review. Although individual experiences may vary, the recurring theme among users is that early intervention with Echinacea can lead to faster recovery and less severe cold or flu symptoms.
Users frequently reported positive experiences when combining Echinacea with other supplements for handling influenza, particularly with vitamin C and lactic acid bacteria. One user mentioned taking Echinacea along with vitamin C at the first sign of flu symptoms, resulting in a marked relief from malaise by the following morning Read Review. Another individual highlighted the complementary effects of combining Echinacea with lactic acid bacteria, suggesting it lessened their COVID symptoms and improved their hay fever compared to the previous year Read Review.
In addition to vitamin C, many users emphasized Echinacea's role in boosting immunity during cold and flu seasons when taken alone or in combination with other health supplements. Multiple reviews noted that Echinacea not only enhances the immune response but also supports overall health, making it a versatile addition to any health regimen aimed at preventing or treating infections like influenza Read Review. Overall, the consensus is that combining Echinacea with other supplements can create a synergistic effect, enhancing its effectiveness against influenza and related ailments.
Based on user reviews, there is a consensus that Echinacea can be effectively used to treat influenza, especially at the onset of symptoms. Users generally recommend a range of dosages, with some suggesting taking 2 to 4 capsules one to four times daily, depending on individual health needs and symptom severity. For instance, one user reports taking 4 capsules twice a day during illness and 2 capsules daily for immune support when healthy Read Review. Another user mentions taking 4 capsules twice a day, noting symptoms vanished within two days of beginning treatment Read Review.
Additionally, users highlighted the importance of starting the treatment at the first sign of flu symptoms to maximize effectiveness, with one reviewer finding success by taking three tablets before bed at the onset of symptoms Read Review. Overall, it appears that a proactive approach coupled with a higher dosage during symptoms can provide relief and support overall immune function.
9
Rapid symptom relief
It really works! As soon as I sense a cold about to hit, I take 4 capsules twice a day. Within two days, all symptoms disappear, and I experience influenza much more calmly.
9
Good for recovery
1 people found this helpful
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.
9
Effective remedy
I discovered Echinacea, a common cold medicine, and tried it out of curiosity. When I felt a cold coming on, I took it several times, and the symptoms vanished immediately. I continued to take it during the influenza epidemic, and it worked effectively.
9
Strong immunity boost
Excellent for preventing influenza and acute respiratory viral infections. It is great for maintaining immunity, particularly during colds. We use it for the entire family!
7.5
Preventive effects
7 people found this helpful
Echinacea is useful in preventing and treating infections like colds and influenza. It boosts immunity by enhancing white blood cell activity, helps prevent respiratory infections, and reduces inflammation related to illnesses. It is also said to support recovery from colds.
7.5
Milder symptoms
Taking Echinacea with lactic acid bacteria seemed to lessen my COVID symptoms and reduce the severity of my hay fever this year compared to last.
8
Supports immune system
1 people found this helpful
I recommend taking 2 capsules of Echinacea 1-4 times daily. It boosts immune system resilience against infections, including influenza and herpes, while providing excellent quality support for overall health.
7.5
Strengthens body
It boosts immunity and helps the body resist viruses in winter. It's excellent for influenza. I take 4 pills twice a day if I'm ill and 2 pills to strengthen immunity when I'm well.
7
Echinacea shows promise against influenza
Plant extracts as a source of antiviral agents against influenza A virus.
We explored the potential of Echinacea purpurea as a natural treatment for influenza A virus (IAV). The research highlighted its effectiveness in preventing the entry or binding of the virus to host cells. This means that Echinacea could potentially stop the virus before it has a chance to invade and multiply within our bodies.
Several studies indicate that while Echinacea shows promise, it should be seen as part of a broader approach to combating IAV. We also noted that other plant extracts, like Silybum marianum and Scutellaria baicalensis, were noted for their antiviral effects, but Echinacea specifically works by blocking the virus's access to cells.
Overall, we found that there is a foundation for considering Echinacea as a complementary therapy for influenza, but further research is needed to fully understand its capabilities and to develop specific treatments. We should be cautious about relying solely on Echinacea, as the fight against flu viruses often requires a multifaceted strategy.
9
Echinacea shows effectiveness against influenza
Effect of an Echinacea-Based Hot Drink Versus Oseltamivir in Influenza Treatment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Double-Dummy, Multicenter, Noninferiority Clinical Trial.
We conducted a well-structured clinical trial to scrutinize the effectiveness of a new Echinacea formulation, named Echinaforce Hotdrink, against oseltamivir, a widely recognized antiviral medication for influenza. This study involved 473 patients who had early symptoms of the flu, allowing us to compare how each treatment influenced recovery.
Participants were given either 5 days of oseltamivir followed by placebo or a 10-day regimen of Echinaforce Hotdrink. By evaluating the proportion of patients who reported their symptoms as absent or mild, we aimed to determine if Echinacea could hold its own against the established antiviral treatment.
Remarkably, we found that Echinaforce Hotdrink was comparable in effectiveness to oseltamivir. Not only did it demonstrate a similar level of symptom relief, but it also seemed to come with a lower risk of complications and adverse effects. This positions Echinacea as a promising option for those seeking natural self-care solutions when facing influenza.
8
Echinacea aids in influenza prevention
Echinacea reduces antibiotic usage in children through respiratory tract infection prevention: a randomized, blinded, controlled clinical trial.
We explored how Echinacea can help prevent influenza and lessen the need for antibiotics in children. In a well-structured study, children aged 4 to 12 received either Echinacea or vitamin C as a control. Over several weeks, parents tracked respiratory symptoms and collected samples to identify pathogens.
The results were promising. Echinacea treatment resulted in significantly fewer cold days—429 days in children taking Echinacea compared to 602 in those taking vitamin C. We observed that Echinacea reduced the occurrence of respiratory tract infections (RTIs) by 32.5%, leading to fewer antibiotic treatments required for children.
Specifically, only six children on Echinacea needed antibiotics, whereas 15 in the vitamin C group did. The study also revealed that Echinacea effectively prevented influenza infections, with only three cases detected compared to 20 in the control group. These findings emphasize Echinacea's potential as a natural option for managing illnesses in children while also reducing antibiotic dependency. Overall, Echinacea appears to be a beneficial supplement for respiratory health in children.
9
Echinacea reduces influenza complications
Prevention of influenza virus induced bacterial superinfection by standardized Echinacea purpurea, via regulation of surface receptor expression in human bronchial epithelial cells.
We assessed how Echinacea purpurea, an herbal medicine, affects influenza virus A infections, especially regarding bacterial infections that can follow. Our focus was on the way Echinacea might help mitigate complications caused by influenza, such as pneumonia or bronchitis, which can occur when the viral infection makes the airways more susceptible to bacteria.
Through our research, we learned that when bronchial cells are infected with the influenza virus, they become more attractive to harmful bacteria like Haemophilus influenzae and Staphylococcus aureus. This happens due to an increase in certain surface receptors on the cells, which are like welcoming signs for these bacteria. However, when we introduced Echinacea, we observed a significant reduction in the expression of these receptors, thus preventing bacteria from adhering to the cells.
Additionally, Echinacea appeared to help keep inflammation in check. By reducing the levels of inflammatory markers and certain pathways that lead to inflammation, it potentially lowers the risk of severe respiratory complications. Our findings suggest that Echinacea purpurea could play a crucial role not only in supporting the immune response against influenza but also in reducing the chances of secondary bacterial infections.
References
Arumugam H, Wong KH, Low ZY, Lal S, Choo WS. Plant extracts as a source of antiviral agents against influenza A virus. J Appl Microbiol. 2025. doi:10.1093/jambio/lxaf056
Lee SK, Lee DR, Min DE, Park SH, Kim DG, et al. Ethanolic Extract from (L.) Moench Inhibits Influenza A/B and Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection : Preventive Agent for Viral Respiratory Infections. Prev Nutr Food Sci. 2024;29:332. doi:10.3746/pnf.2024.29.3.332
Wang X, Chen J, Chan Y, Li S, Li M, et al. Effect of Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench and its extracts on the immunization outcome of avian influenza vaccine in broilers. J Ethnopharmacol. 2024;319:117306. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2023.117306
Ogal M, Johnston SL, Klein P, Schoop R. Echinacea reduces antibiotic usage in children through respiratory tract infection prevention: a randomized, blinded, controlled clinical trial. Eur J Med Res. 2021;26:33. doi:10.1186/s40001-021-00499-6
Eladl AH, Arafat N, El-Shafei RA, Farag VM, Saleh RM, et al. Comparative immune response and pathogenicity of the H9N2 avian influenza virus after administration of Immulant, based on Echinacea and Nigella sativa, in stressed chickens. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis. 2019;65:165. doi:10.1016/j.cimid.2019.05.017
Razin MAF, Osman A, Ali MA, Bahgat MM, Maghraby AS. Immune responses to killed reassorted influenza virus supplemented with natural adjuvants. Acta Microbiol Immunol Hung. 2017;64:313. doi:10.1556/030.64.2017.011
Vimalanathan S, Schoop R, Suter A, Hudson J. Prevention of influenza virus induced bacterial superinfection by standardized Echinacea purpurea, via regulation of surface receptor expression in human bronchial epithelial cells. Virus Res. 2017;233:51. doi:10.1016/j.virusres.2017.03.006
Rauš K, Pleschka S, Klein P, Schoop R, Fisher P. Effect of an Echinacea-Based Hot Drink Versus Oseltamivir in Influenza Treatment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Double-Dummy, Multicenter, Noninferiority Clinical Trial. Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2015;77:66. doi:10.1016/j.curtheres.2015.04.001
Di Pierro F, Rapacioli G, Ferrara T, Togni S. Use of a standardized extract from Echinacea angustifolia (Polinacea) for the prevention of respiratory tract infections. Altern Med Rev. 2012;17:36.
Cech NB, Kandhi V, Davis JM, Hamilton A, Eads D, et al. Echinacea and its alkylamides: effects on the influenza A-induced secretion of cytokines, chemokines, and PGE₂ from RAW 264.7 macrophage-like cells. Int Immunopharmacol. 2010;10:1268. doi:10.1016/j.intimp.2010.07.009
Fusco D, Liu X, Savage C, Taur Y, Xiao W, et al. Echinacea purpurea aerial extract alters course of influenza infection in mice. Vaccine. 2010;28:3956. doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2010.03.047
Pleschka S, Stein M, Schoop R, Hudson JB. Anti-viral properties and mode of action of standardized Echinacea purpurea extract against highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1, H7N7) and swine-origin H1N1 (S-OIV). Virol J. 2009;6:197. doi:10.1186/1743-422X-6-197
Senchina DS, Wu L, Flinn GN, Konopka del N, McCoy JA, et al. Year-and-a-half old, dried Echinacea roots retain cytokine-modulating capabilities in an in vitro human older adult model of influenza vaccination. Planta Med. 2006;72:1207.
Bodinet C, Mentel R, Wegner U, Lindequist U, Teuscher E, et al. Effect of oral application of an immunomodulating plant extract on Influenza virus type A infection in mice. Planta Med. 2002;68:896.