Echinacea Angustifolia Root Supercritical Co2 Extract
Also known as: Echinacea angustifolia DC., Narrow-leaf purple coneflower, Echinacea angustifolia root extract, Echinacea angustifolia
Overview
Echinacea angustifolia root supercritical CO2 extract is a concentrated botanical preparation derived from the root of the narrow-leaf purple coneflower using supercritical carbon dioxide extraction. This method is particularly effective at isolating lipophilic alkylamides, which are considered the primary active compounds responsible for its immunomodulatory effects. Traditionally, this extract has been used to support the immune system and alleviate symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). Research indicates that its key characteristics include a high alkylamide content, which mediates its effects by interacting with immune cells. While there is a moderate amount of research, including clinical trials and mechanistic studies, the variability in outcomes often depends on the specific extract type and preparation. The quality of evidence is mixed, with some well-conducted randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, but heterogeneity in formulations and dosing can complicate definitive conclusions. This extract is recognized for its potential to modulate immune responses and reduce inflammation.
Benefits
Echinacea angustifolia root supercritical CO2 extract primarily offers immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory benefits. Its main effect is the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-12p70, as evidenced by a systematic review showing statistically significant decreases (p < 0.05) in these cytokines within 24 hours post-intervention. This anti-inflammatory potential is largely attributed to alkylamides in the extract binding to cannabinoid-2 receptors, thereby modulating immune responses. Some evidence also suggests its utility in reducing the duration and severity of common cold symptoms, though clinical efficacy can vary based on the specific preparation and study design. Secondary benefits include enhanced macrophage phagocytosis and modulation of COX-2 enzyme activity, further contributing to its anti-inflammatory properties. Healthy adults have shown cytokine modulation, with reductions in cytokine levels ranging from approximately 24-39% (e.g., TNF-α reduced to 61% of baseline). Effects can be observed as early as 24 hours after a single dose.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Echinacea angustifolia root supercritical CO2 extract involves its alkylamide content. These alkylamides are well-absorbed and rapidly bioavailable, particularly from liquid extracts. Upon absorption, they bind to cannabinoid-2 receptors found on immune cells, which leads to a reduction in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, the extract enhances macrophage phagocytosis, a process critical for clearing pathogens, and inhibits COX-2 mediated prostaglandin E2 synthesis, further contributing to its anti-inflammatory effects. There is also evidence suggesting that the extract may interact with toll-like receptors and Peyer's patches in the gut, modulating mucosal immunity even without systemic absorption. Supercritical CO2 extraction is crucial as it optimizes the yield of these bioactive alkylamides, enhancing the extract's overall bioactivity compared to other extraction methods.
Side effects
Echinacea angustifolia root supercritical CO2 extract is generally considered safe, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in clinical studies. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions, which are rare and typically occur in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family. Currently, there are no significant drug interactions or contraindications consistently reported in high-quality research. However, caution is advised for special populations such as pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those who are immunocompromised, as there is insufficient data to confirm safety in these groups. While generally well-tolerated for short-term use, long-term safety data is limited, and prolonged use should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Dosage
Effective doses of Echinacea angustifolia root supercritical CO2 extract vary depending on the specific study and formulation. One study utilized a single 10 mg soft gel capsule containing 1 mg of alkylamides to observe cytokine modulation. For the prevention or treatment of upper respiratory tract infections, clinical trials have often used doses of 900 mg of extract three times daily, particularly in liquid forms, which have demonstrated good bioavailability. Optimal dosing is highly dependent on the standardization of the extract, specifically its alkylamide content, and the overall formulation. Due to the higher concentration of alkylamides achieved through supercritical CO2 extraction, lower doses may be effective compared to extracts produced by other methods. Effects on cytokines can be observed within 24 hours of dosing, suggesting that repeated dosing may be necessary for sustained benefits.
FAQs
Is Echinacea angustifolia root supercritical CO2 extract effective for colds?
Some evidence suggests it can modulate immune responses and reduce common cold symptoms, but results vary based on the specific extract type and study design. Its anti-inflammatory effects are well-documented.
Is it safe to use daily?
It is generally considered safe for short-term use. However, long-term safety data is limited, so prolonged daily use should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
How quickly does it work?
Effects on cytokine modulation, indicating immune system activity, can be observed within 24 hours of a single dose.
Does the extraction method matter for Echinacea?
Yes, the extraction method is crucial. Supercritical CO2 extraction yields a higher content of bioactive alkylamides, which are responsible for many of its beneficial effects, enhancing its potential bioactivity.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12083864/ – This study investigated the optimal parameters for supercritical CO2 extraction of alkylamides from Echinacea angustifolia roots. It found that specific temperature and pressure conditions yielded significantly higher alkylamide content, supporting the use of this extraction method to maximize active components and enhance the extract's bioactivity.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8320399/ – This systematic review analyzed the effects of Echinacea supplementation on inflammatory cytokines in healthy adults. It reported that a single dose of lipophilic E. angustifolia root extract significantly decreased several pro-inflammatory cytokine plasma concentrations within 24 hours, indicating its anti-inflammatory potential, though the study had a small sample size.
- https://www.clinician.com/articles/11276-echinacea-for-upper-respiratory-viral-infections-preparatory-differences-matter – This review discussed the immunomodulatory effects of Echinacea species, emphasizing that alkylamides from E. angustifolia root extracts are well-absorbed and interact with cannabinoid-2 receptors to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhance macrophage activity. It highlighted the importance of extract type and preparation, particularly supercritical CO2 extraction, for clinical efficacy.