Echinacea is a popular herb that is mainly used to boost immunity and combat fever and chills. This herb contains a mixture of powerful active substances that have antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. The most important group of substances in Echinacea are phenols, which are represented by special compounds that control the activity of enzymes and cellular receptors. The result is protection against infections and radiation exposure. Phenols also have antioxidant properties that help support overall health.
Although Echinacea has many varieties, only three of them are used for medicinal purposes.
8 Health Benefits of Echinacea
- Fights cancer
The phytochemicals in echinacea have been found to be effective in fighting tumors. Although the study was preliminary, the results were encouraging. And recently, experts have recommended echinacea as an additional treatment for cancer, but by no means the main one.
- Diabetes treatment
Echinacea may prevent insulin spikes and keep glucose levels under control, which is especially important for diabetics and prediabetics. And in case you have hypoglycemia, you can also prevent low blood sugar levels. Drinking echinacea tea or supplements can be an excellent treatment for diabetes (in addition to regular medications).
- Fight inflammation
Canadian researchers say that regular consumption of echinacea helps fight inflammation. Other studies show that echinacea helps treat uveitis (a form of eye inflammation). People suffering from a condition such as inflammatory arthritis can also benefit from consuming Echinacea tea.
- Boosts immunity
Echinacea increases the number of white blood cells that fight infections. Although there is little information about the connection between consuming echinacea and treating colds, research has shown that this plant can stimulate the immune system.
Some studies show that echinacea can reduce the risk of colds by 58%, as well as treat bronchitis and relieve sore throats.
- Reduces blood pressure
Preliminary research suggests that the high amount of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds in echinacea may help lower blood pressure. However, consult your doctor before using echinacea for this purpose.
- Treats infections
Echinacea can be used as a treatment for urinary tract infections and upper respiratory tract infections. Since this plant strengthens the immune system, it works well in preventing infectious diseases. This also applies to the treatment of genital fungal infections.
- Treats herpes
Thanks to Echinacea's ability to fight infections, you can get significant relief from herpes. Some evidence suggests that taking echinacea helps reduce the frequency and severity of cold sores.
- Treats acne
Echinacea may fight acne by reducing inflammation caused by bacteria. To do this, you need to drink Echinacea tea three times a day.
Side effects of Echinacea
— Possible problems during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Despite the numerous positive effects, you should avoid taking medications and teas based on this herb during these periods due to the lack of reliable information.
— Autoimmune disorders
Echinacea may affect the immune system, worsening some autoimmune diseases: multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.
— Contraindicated for children
Do not give echinacea to children under 12 years of age due to possible allergic reactions.
— Interaction with drugs
Echinacea is not recommended for use in conjunction with drugs that affect the liver and immunosuppressants.