Guest guest Posted December 18, 2008 Report Share Posted December 18, 2008 Echinacea Background: Echinacea is a perennial herb, which contains echinoside and several other active substances. Various parts of the plant are used medicinally. Medicinal Claims: Several substances in echinacea may stimulate the immune system. Echinacea is used to help treat viral infections in the upper respiratory tract, such as the common cold. Applied as a cream or ointment, echinacea has been used to promote healing of wounds. Many studies have evaluated the effects of echinacea, but none were designed well enough to provide conclusive results. Also, most of these studies evaluated products in which echinacea was combined with other herbs, making evaluation of echinacea's effects difficult. At least two relatively well-designed studies evaluated echinacea's effectiveness in upper respiratory tract infections: In one, echinacea reduced the duration of colds and the severity of symptoms; in the other, it reduced the frequency and number of recurrences. Possible Side Effects: No significant side effects have been identified. Echinacea may interact with drugs that can cause liver damage, thereby increasing the risk of liver damage. Echinacea may negate the effects of immunosuppressants, which are used, for example, to prevent rejection of organ transplants. People who have type 1 diabetes, autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis), or an impaired immune system (for example, as impaired by AIDS or tuberculosis) should consult their doctor before they take echinacea. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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