Positive Health Online

Abstract

BARRETT, Department of Family Medicine, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Medison WI 53715, USA, bbarrett@wisc.edu, has critically reviewed (172 references) the medicinal properties of Echinacea. Abstract: Preparations of Echinacea purpurea are among the most commonly used herbal medicines, and are generally used for enhancing immune function. Experiments have demonstrated numerous immunomodulatory effects of E. purpurea extracts such as macrophage activation, activation of polymorphonuclear leucocytes and natural killer cells, and changes in the numbers and activities of B- and T-cell lymphocytes. Despite this cellular and molecular evidence, pathways leading to enhanced resistance to disease have not been adequately described. A number of randomized blinded trials have reported health benefits from E. purpurea extracts, particularly for upper respiratory tract disease. However these trials are limited in size and methodological quality although they suggest modest benefit. The author concludes that while there is a great deal of data showing effects of Echinacea in the immune system, it has not yet been proven beyond reasonable doubt that Echinacea treats illness or enhances health in human beings.

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References

Barrett B. Medicinal properties of Echinacea: a critical review. Phytomedicine 10 (1): 66-86, Jan 2003.