Evidence supporting the use of: Echinacosides
For the health condition: Infection (viral)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Echinacoside is a natural phenylethanoid glycoside found primarily in the herb Echinacea species, especially Echinacea angustifolia and Echinacea purpurea. The use of echinacea preparations for the prevention and treatment of viral infections, such as the common cold and flu, is well-documented in traditional and folk medicine, especially among Native American populations and in European phytotherapy. Echinacoside is considered one of the active constituents of echinacea, and its presence is often cited as a marker of the plant's antiviral activity.

However, the scientific evidence specifically for echinacoside—as a purified compound—for treating viral infections is limited. Most clinical studies and traditional usage refer to whole echinacea extracts rather than isolated echinacoside. In vitro studies have shown that echinacoside may possess some antiviral and immunomodulatory properties, but these findings have not been robustly confirmed in human trials. The evidence supporting echinacea extracts for viral infections is mixed, with some studies suggesting mild benefit in reducing the duration or severity of colds, and others showing no significant effect.

In summary, the use of echinacoside to support or treat viral infections is primarily justified by traditional use of echinacea preparations, with only limited direct scientific evidence for echinacoside itself. Therefore, the evidence rating is 2 out of 5.

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