"Echinacea - The Truth on Its Cold Fighting Capabilities"Echinacea, (echinacea purpurea), as a treatment to minimize or prevent the onset of colds. Indeed, it has seen a long history of use by many cultures, including the North American Plains Indians, who used it in a myriad of ways. For example, they frequently used it as an antiseptic, a pain reliever, and as a treatment for poisonous insects and snakebites. In fact, it was their most used medicinal herb. I've Got a Cold. Am I Wasting My Money On This Herb? Well, concerning the research on this herb's effectiveness as a cold treatment, studies are mixed. To begin, in a study that was published in 2005, in the New England Journal of Medicine, it was found to be an ineffective treatment, for preventing or minimizing the severity of colds. In this study, 437 individuals were given Echinacea, before and after being exposed to the cold virus. The volunteers participating in this study, were equally as likely to catch a cold, as those volunteers taking a placebo. At the studies conclusion, the research indicated that those taking this herb, were just as likely to catch a cold, as those taking a placebo. And yet, other studies indicate that, when taken at the onset of a cold, it will reduce its severity, and minimize its symptoms. In another study, 95 individuals who were developing a cold, given a tea made from this herb for five days, felt better, than those drinking tea that didn't include it. But, in some countries, such as Germany, where herbs are regulated, the above ground parts of this plant are approved as a treatment for colds. Re: Given All the Hype Around This Herb, Does It Have Any Therapeutic Value? Conversely, regarding its ability to improve immune system function, most experts agree, it can be very effective as an immune system stimulant. Basically, your immune system is a series of processes, that identify and destroy disease-causing pathogens. First of all, this herb functions in a nonspecific manner, by generally activating white blood cells, instead of targeting specific organs. White blood cells are your body's first line of defense against infection. They are also called leukocytes, and their number increases, to help combat foreign bacteria in your body. Furthermore, Echinacea is thought to increase what is known as cell-mediated immunity. In short, concerning cell mediated immunity, the white blood cells produce a chemical known as interferon. Interferon is created by the white blood cells, and its function is to destroy viruses, and cancer cells. One of the chemicals in Echinacea, echinacoside, is thought to be the reason for immune system stimulation. Contraindications However, some researchers think that stimulating the immune system may cause diseases such as AIDS and Cancer, to progress faster. Also, for conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, where the immune system is already in overdrive, this herb would be contraindicated. On the other hand, some scientists think it can help heal certain medical conditions, such as Psoriasis, Eczema, Herpes, and other infectious medical conditions. Echinacea side effects Although side effects caused by taking this herb are rare, there are a few. Here are some side effects you may experience:
At this point, you may be wondering what herbal actions it exhibits, and whether it is an effective treatment for respiratory and other conditions. Here is a list of the herbal actions associated with Echinacea:
So, Is It a Useful Treatment For Colds Or Not? From my perspective, it's a tough call. It seems there are more studies that disprove its effects for respiratory ailments, then prove it. Playing the numbers game, I must conclude that Echinacea is ineffective for colds and flu, as there is substantial evidence indicating its ineffectiveness. But, regarding its efficacy in improving immune system function, most scientists think that it is a valuable herb for fighting infection. In conclusion, if you've got a cold, you should probably look elsewhere. But if you're suffering from a urinary tract infection, a vaginal yeast infection, or athletes foot, it just might help you treat these conditions. I wish you good health.
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