Evidence supporting the use of: Echinacea purpurea
For the health condition: Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen)

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Synopsis

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

Echinacea purpurea has a longstanding history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American tribes and in European phytotherapy, for supporting immune function and addressing symptoms related to infections, including those that may cause swollen lymph nodes or glands. Traditionally, echinacea was employed for its purported ability to bolster the body’s defenses against illnesses such as the common cold, flu, and other upper respiratory tract infections, which can sometimes be associated with lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes). The rationale was that by enhancing immune response, echinacea might help the body fight infections that lead to swollen glands.

However, scientific studies on Echinacea purpurea have primarily focused on its effects in preventing or treating the common cold and other mild infections. There is a lack of direct scientific evidence specifically evaluating echinacea’s efficacy in treating or reducing swollen lymph nodes or glandular inflammation. Most clinical trials have not measured lymph node swelling as an outcome. Thus, while its use for this purpose is rooted in tradition and immune-support claims, robust clinical evidence is lacking, and the connection to lymph node health remains speculative. Modern herbalists sometimes recommend echinacea as an adjunct for immune support during infections, but mainstream medical guidelines do not endorse its use specifically for swollen glands.

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