Evidence supporting the use of: Echinacea (various)
For the health condition: Cold Sores

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Echinacea, a group of flowering plants commonly known as coneflowers, has a long history of traditional use by Native Americans and in folk medicine, primarily to support the immune system and to help prevent or treat colds and infections. Its use for cold sores (herpes simplex labialis) is largely based on this general reputation for boosting immune function rather than on direct historical or scientific evidence targeting cold sores specifically. There are a few in vitro studies suggesting that Echinacea extracts may have antiviral properties and can stimulate immune cell activity, which could theoretically help the body fight herpes simplex virus. However, there is a lack of robust clinical trials specifically examining Echinacea’s efficacy against the herpes simplex virus or cold sores in humans. Most evidence for its use in cold sores is anecdotal or extrapolated from its general immune-supportive roles. Therefore, while its use for cold sores is rooted in traditional immune support applications, there is little direct evidence to support its effectiveness for this specific condition.

More about Echinacea (various)
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Products containing Echinacea (various)

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