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Echinacea angustifolia Extract

Also known as: Narrow-leaf purple coneflower, Echinacea, Echinacea angustifolia

Overview

Echinacea angustifolia extract is a herbal supplement primarily derived from the roots of the Echinacea angustifolia plant, which is native to North America. It is widely recognized for its traditional use in supporting immune function, particularly in the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections like the common cold. The extract contains several bioactive compounds, including alkamides, caffeic acid derivatives, and polysaccharides, which are believed to modulate the immune system. Research on E. angustifolia is relatively mature, with numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses exploring its efficacy. While results can vary based on the specific extract type, dosage, and study design, there is consistent evidence supporting its role in immune modulation and anti-inflammatory effects. It is available in various forms, with lipophilic root extracts standardized for alkamides often preferred for their immunomodulatory properties.

Benefits

Echinacea angustifolia extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily centered around immune support and anti-inflammatory effects. A 2021 systematic review and included RCT demonstrated that a lipophilic root extract significantly decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α in healthy adults within 24 hours, indicating potent anti-inflammatory properties. For instance, TNF-α levels were reduced to approximately 61% of baseline. This suggests its utility in modulating inflammatory responses. Furthermore, a 2007 meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials indicated that echinacea extracts, including E. angustifolia, can reduce both the incidence and duration of the common cold. This supports its use for both preventive and therapeutic purposes, with statistically significant effects compared to placebo. The benefits for cytokine modulation can be observed within hours to days, while improvements in cold symptoms typically manifest within days to a week. The strength of evidence for these benefits is moderate to high, with consistent findings across multiple high-quality studies.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action for Echinacea angustifolia extract involves modulating the immune system, particularly by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α. This anti-inflammatory effect is partly attributed to alkamides present in the lipophilic root extract, which interact with cannabinoid receptors (CB2) on immune cells. This interaction contributes to its immunomodulatory properties. Additionally, the extract may enhance innate immune responses by stimulating phagocytosis and increasing the activity of leukocytes, thereby improving the body's ability to clear pathogens. The relatively high oral bioavailability of alkamides facilitates systemic immune effects, allowing the active compounds to reach target immune cells throughout the body and exert their beneficial actions.

Side effects

Echinacea angustifolia extracts are generally considered safe for short-term use in healthy adults. Common side effects are rare and typically mild, primarily involving gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea or stomach upset. Allergic reactions, though uncommon, can occur, especially in individuals with known sensitivities to plants belonging to the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, marigolds, daisies). Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include skin rashes, itching, or, in severe cases, anaphylaxis. No serious adverse events or significant drug interactions have been consistently reported in high-quality randomized controlled trials. However, caution is advised for individuals with autoimmune diseases due to the potential for immune stimulation, which could theoretically exacerbate their condition. Contraindications include a known allergy to echinacea or other plants in the Asteraceae family. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

Dosage

Effective dosages of Echinacea angustifolia extract vary depending on the specific preparation and purpose. For immunomodulatory effects, a single 10 mg soft gel capsule containing 1 mg of dodeca-2E,4E,8Z,10E/Z-tetraenoic isobutylamides has been shown to be effective in reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines. For the common cold, meta-analyses include studies with daily doses ranging from 300 mg to 1000 mg of standardized extract, often taken three times daily during acute cold episodes. Optimal dosing is highly dependent on the extract's standardization, with lipophilic root extracts standardized for alkamides generally preferred for their immunomodulatory properties. For prevention, daily dosing during the cold season is suggested. For treatment, it is recommended to initiate dosing at the first sign of cold symptoms and continue for 7–10 days. There are no established upper limits for long-term use, and long-term safety data are limited, so short-term use is generally advised.

FAQs

Is Echinacea angustifolia effective for cold prevention?

Yes, evidence supports a modest reduction in the incidence of the common cold with regular use of Echinacea angustifolia extract, making it beneficial for preventive purposes.

How quickly does it work?

Changes in cytokine levels, indicating immune modulation, can occur within 24 hours of dosing. Symptom relief for the common cold typically begins within a few days of starting treatment.

Is it safe for long-term use?

Short-term use of Echinacea angustifolia is generally considered safe. However, long-term safety data are limited, and it is typically recommended for intermittent or short-term use.

Can it cause allergies?

Yes, individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, daisies) may experience allergic reactions to Echinacea angustifolia, though this is rare.

Research Sources

  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8320399/ – This systematic review and included single-blind RCT investigated the effects of Echinacea angustifolia lipophilic root extract on cytokine levels in healthy adults. It found significant decreases in pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-12p70) 24 hours post-dose, indicating anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The study provides mechanistic insight into how the extract modulates immune responses.
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7106401/ – This meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials assessed the efficacy of echinacea extracts, including E. angustifolia, in reducing the incidence and duration of the common cold. It concluded that echinacea can significantly reduce both the risk and duration of colds, supporting its use for both prevention and treatment. The study highlights the overall clinical benefit of echinacea for respiratory infections.

Supplements Containing Echinacea angustifolia Extract

Well-Max With NAC by Country Life
58

Well-Max With NAC

Country Life

Score: 58/100
Echinacea Standardized by Nature's Way
80

Echinacea Standardized

Nature's Way

Score: 80/100
Olive Leaf Extract by NOW
60

Olive Leaf Extract

NOW

Score: 60/100
Grapefruit Seed Extract 250 mg by BIOVEA
75

Grapefruit Seed Extract 250 mg

BIOVEA

Score: 75/100
Echinacea Goldenseal Supreme by Gaia Herbs
58

Echinacea Goldenseal Supreme

Gaia Herbs

Score: 58/100