Evidence supporting the use of: Echinacea (various)
For the health condition: Sinus Infection

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Synopsis

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

Echinacea, primarily Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia, has a long history of traditional use by Native American peoples for a variety of infections, including those involving the upper respiratory tract. Its use for sinus infections (sinusitis) is an extension of its general reputation as an immune system booster and treatment for colds and respiratory ailments. Modern herbalists often recommend Echinacea to support the immune response during sinus infections, but this is largely based on tradition and extrapolation from its use in common colds.

Scientific studies on Echinacea have mostly focused on its effects in reducing the duration or severity of the common cold, with mixed results; some systematic reviews suggest a modest benefit, while others find little to no effect. There is little direct clinical evidence specifically addressing Echinacea’s efficacy for sinus infections. The mechanism proposed is enhancement of immune activity (such as increased phagocytosis and cytokine production), but this has not been clearly shown to improve outcomes in sinusitis. Therefore, while Echinacea is often used for sinus infections in traditional and alternative medicine, the evidence base supporting this use is weak and indirect, meriting a low score for scientific support.

More about Echinacea (various)
More about Sinus Infection

Products containing Echinacea (various)

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