Echinamide Proprietary Blend Echinacea Extract
Also known as: Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, Echinacea extract, purple coneflower extract, Echinamide Proprietary Blend Echinacea Extract, Echinacea purpurea
Overview
Echinacea extracts are derived from the aerial parts and roots of various Echinacea plant species, primarily *Echinacea purpurea*, *Echinacea angustifolia*, and *Echinacea pallida*. Traditionally used for immune support, these extracts are commonly employed for the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), including the common cold. The active compounds, such as alkamides, caffeic acid derivatives (e.g., cichoric acid), polysaccharides, and glycoproteins, contribute to its purported antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulatory properties. Research on Echinacea is moderate, with numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses available, though conclusions can be complicated by the heterogeneity of formulations and dosages.
Benefits
Echinacea extract has demonstrated several evidence-based benefits, primarily in the context of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). It has been shown to reduce the odds of developing a cold by approximately 22% to 58%, depending on the specific study and formulation used. Furthermore, it can shorten the duration of cold symptoms by about 0.45 to 1.7 days compared to placebo, with higher doses generally correlating with greater benefits. Newer, higher-dose formulations have also been associated with faster viral clearance and improved subjective recovery rates. These benefits are observed in both adults and children, with one pediatric study showing a 1.7-day reduction in cold duration with a 2,000 mg *Echinacea* extract. The reduction in symptom duration by 1 to 1.4 days is considered clinically meaningful and comparable to other common cold interventions. Benefits are observed during acute treatment, with some evidence supporting prophylactic use to reduce incidence.
How it works
Echinacea primarily exerts its effects through immunomodulation and antiviral mechanisms. It stimulates various components of the immune system, including macrophages and natural killer cells, and increases the production of cytokines, which are crucial for immune responses. Its antiviral properties involve inhibiting viral replication and enhancing the body's ability to clear viruses. At a molecular level, alkamides, a key group of active compounds, are known to interact with cannabinoid receptors (CB2), influencing immune cell activity. The primary action is on the immune system, enhancing innate immune responses. Lipophilic extracts, rich in alkamides, generally exhibit higher bioavailability and efficacy compared to aqueous extracts, allowing for better absorption and systemic action.
Side effects
Echinacea is generally considered safe and well-tolerated in healthy adults and children. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort and allergic reactions, particularly in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include rash and dizziness. Rare but serious side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, can include anaphylaxis, especially in individuals with known allergies to ragweed or related plants. Caution is advised regarding potential interactions with immunosuppressant medications, as Echinacea can stimulate the immune system. It is contraindicated in individuals with autoimmune diseases or known allergies to ragweed or other plants in the Asteraceae family. Data on its use during pregnancy and lactation are limited, so it should be used with caution in these populations.
Dosage
Studies indicate that benefits of Echinacea extract are observed at minimum effective doses around 1,200 mg/day of a standardized extract. Optimal dosage ranges can vary significantly, with some studies utilizing doses up to 16,800 mg/day, which showed increased efficacy but require careful safety monitoring. While a firm maximum safe dose has not been established, doses up to 16,800 mg/day have been used in trials without serious adverse events. Echinacea can be taken both prophylactically on a daily basis to reduce incidence, and acutely at the onset of symptoms for treatment. For optimal efficacy, lipophilic extracts, particularly those rich in alkamides, are preferred due to their superior bioavailability. No specific cofactors are identified as required for its absorption or efficacy.
FAQs
Is Echinacea effective for preventing colds?
Yes, meta-analyses suggest a moderate preventive effect, reducing the incidence of colds by approximately 22%.
Does it shorten cold duration?
Yes, it can shorten the duration of cold symptoms by about 1 to 1.4 days on average, with higher doses generally leading to greater reductions.
Is it safe for children?
Yes, evidence supports its use in children, but appropriate dosing and monitoring by a healthcare provider are recommended.
Are all Echinacea products equally effective?
No, efficacy varies significantly based on the species, plant part used, extraction method, and dosage. Lipophilic extracts tend to be more effective.
Can it be used alongside other medications?
Generally, it is safe, but caution is advised when used with immunosuppressants. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements with medications.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2023.948787/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of multiple RCTs found that new high-dose Echinacea formulations reduced symptom duration of respiratory tract infections by 1–1.4 days and improved viral clearance and subjective recovery in adults and children. The study performed a rigorous meta-analysis with dose-response analysis, acknowledging heterogeneity in formulations and dose variability as limitations.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7106401/ – This meta-analysis of 14 trials (16 analyses) involving mixed adult populations concluded that Echinacea decreased the odds of developing a cold by 58% and shortened its duration by 1.4 days. The study included both prevention and treatment trials, performing subgroup and sensitivity analyses, though it noted heterogeneity due to the inclusion of studies with combined nutraceuticals.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31126553/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis, conducted in a Cochrane style, analyzed RCTs with at least 30 healthy participants. It found a risk ratio for prevention of 0.78 (indicating a 22% reduction in cold incidence) and a mean duration reduction of 0.45 days, with no significant safety concerns. The review applied Cochrane methodology and quality assessment, noting variability in extract types and doses as a limitation.
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