Synopsis

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

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, has a long history of traditional use among Native American peoples for treating respiratory infections and other ailments. Its application for influenza (flu) and other upper respiratory tract infections has extended into modern herbal medicine. Scientifically, several laboratory and clinical studies have investigated Echinacea’s potential to modulate the immune system, enhance phagocytic activity, and exhibit antiviral properties. Some in vitro studies indicate that extracts of Echinacea purpurea can inhibit specific influenza virus strains. However, the clinical evidence remains inconsistent. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggest that echinacea may have a modest effect in reducing the duration or severity of cold symptoms, but evidence specifically targeting influenza is weak or lacking. Most trials focus on the common cold rather than laboratory-confirmed influenza. The heterogeneity in echinacea preparations, dosages, and study quality further complicate interpretation. Current scientific consensus holds that echinacea is generally safe and may offer minor benefits for general respiratory infections, but robust evidence supporting its use specifically for influenza is limited. Therefore, while there is some scientific basis for its immune-modulating effects, the evidence supporting its efficacy in treating or preventing influenza is rated as low (2 out of 5).

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