Evidence supporting the use of: Echinacea (unspecified)
For the health condition: Influenza

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Synopsis

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

Echinacea has a long history of traditional use among Native American peoples and later in Western herbal medicine for the treatment and prevention of respiratory infections, including influenza ("the flu"). Various species of Echinacea (such as Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia) have been used as remedies to support the immune system and reduce the severity or duration of colds and flu-like illnesses. The rationale for its use is based on traditional beliefs that Echinacea can enhance immune function, though its primary historical use was for snakebites and wound infections before the popularity of its use for respiratory ailments increased in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Scientific studies investigating Echinacea for influenza specifically are limited and results are mixed. Most research has focused on the common cold rather than influenza. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest immunomodulatory effects, but high-quality clinical trials in humans have not consistently demonstrated significant efficacy for either preventing or treating influenza. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have generally found insufficient or inconsistent evidence for Echinacea’s benefit against influenza, with some reviews concluding that any effect is likely small or uncertain.

Overall, use of Echinacea for influenza is primarily justified by tradition, with only modest and inconsistent scientific support. It is not recommended as a substitute for proven preventive measures (such as vaccination) or antiviral therapy.

More about Echinacea (unspecified)
More about Influenza

Products containing Echinacea (unspecified)

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