Echinacea: for the prevention of colds

Echinacea: A powerful ally in the prevention of colds

Echinacea, a plant with a rich history and confirmed useful properties, occupies a special place in the arsenal of means to maintain immunity and prevents of colds. For centuries, indigenous Americans used various types of echinacea to treat a wide range of ailments, and modern science confirms its effectiveness in the fight against viral infections and strengthening the body’s defenses. This article examines in detail the echinacea, its types, mechanism of action, proven effectiveness, methods of application, potential side effects and contraindications, as well as recommendations for the choice of high -quality drugs based on echinacea.

Botanical description and types of echinacea

Echinacea belongs to the Asteraceae family and includes nine different species growing in North America. The most studied and often used for medical purposes are three types:

• Echinacea purple (Echinacea Purpurea): This is the most common type of echinacea, characterized by large, bright colors with purple petals and a cone -shaped center. Echinacea Purple is rich in active compounds and is often used in the production of drugs and food additives.

• Echinacea narrow -leaved (echinacea angustifolia): This species is characterized by a narrower petals and a high content of alkylamides with pronounced immunomodulating properties. Echinacea narrow -leaved was traditionally used by indigenous Americans to treat snake bites and wounds.

• Echinacea Pale (Echinacea Pallida): It differs pale, almost white petals. Although the echinacea of pale also has healing properties, it is less studied and is used less often than two other species.

All three types contain a wide range of biologically active compounds, which in the aggregate determine their therapeutic effect.

Chemical composition of Echinacea: Key to efficiency

Echinacea contains a complex complex of biologically active substances that interact with each other, providing a wide range of therapeutic effects. The main components of Echinacea include:

• Alkylamides (alkamyds): These lipid compounds have a powerful immunomodulating effect. They interact with cannabinoid receptors of type 2 (CB2) in immune cells, activating them and enhancing the immune response. Alkylamides also have anti -inflammatory properties.

• Polisaccharides: These compounds include arabinogalaktans, heteroxylans and other complex carbohydrates. Polysaccharides stimulate phagocytosis (absorption and destruction of pathogenic microorganisms with immune cells), increase the activity of natural killers (NK cells) and stimulate the production of interferon, substances with antiviral activity.

• Coffee acid and its derivatives (chicoric acid, echinacid, verbascooside): These compounds are powerful antioxidants that protect the cells from damage to free radicals. They also have anti -inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial properties. Echinacoside is especially known for its ability to inhibit hyaluronidase, an enzyme that bacteria is used to penetrate the tissue.

• Flavonoids (quercetin, routine, isoramnetin): These plant pigments have antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties. They also help strengthen the vascular wall and improve blood microcirculation.

• Essential oils: Echinacea essential oils have antiseptic and anti -inflammatory properties.

The combination of these and other biologically active compounds determines the complex effect of echinacea on the body, strengthening the immune system and increasing resistance to infections.

Echinacea mechanism: how it works at the cellular level

Echinacea has a multifaceted effect on the immune system, stimulating its various links and increasing the body’s resistance to infections. The main mechanisms of the action of echinacea include:

• Activation of immune cells: Echinacea stimulates the activity of various immune cells, including macrophages, neutrophils, natural killers (NK cells) and T-lymphocytes. Activated immune cells become more effective in detecting and destroying pathogenic microorganisms.

• Fagocytosis stimulation: Echinacea increases the phagocytic activity of macrophages and neutrophils, increasing their ability to absorb and destroy bacteria, viruses and other foreign particles.

• Strengthening the production of cytokines: Echinacea stimulates the production of cytokines, such as Interleukin-1 (IL-1), Interlayykin-6 (IL-6), Alpha tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interferon. Cytokins play an important role in the regulation of the immune response, coordinating the interaction between various immune cells and increasing their activity. Interferon has a pronounced antiviral activity.

• An increase in the number of leukocytes: Some studies show that echinacea can contribute to an increase in the number of leukocytes (white blood cells) in the blood, which also enhances immune defense of the body.

• Anti -inflammatory action: Echinacea has anti -inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract with colds.

• Antiviral action: Some components of echinacea, such as echinacoside, have a direct antiviral effect, inhibiting the reproduction of viruses in cells.

The combination of these mechanisms of action allows echinacea to effectively strengthen the immune system and increase the body’s resistance to infections, especially to respiratory viruses that cause colds.

The effectiveness of echinacea in the prevention and treatment of colds: scientific evidence

The effectiveness of echinacea in the prevention and treatment of colds is the subject of numerous scientific research. The results of these studies are ambiguous, but most of them indicate the positive effect of Echinacea on the immune system and symptoms of a cold.

• Prevention of colds: The meta-analyzes of several studies have shown that the regular use of echinacea can reduce the risk of causing colds by 20-30%. Echinacea can also reduce the duration and severity of the symptoms of a cold, such as a runny nose, sore throat and cough.

• Treatment of colds: Some studies have shown that taking echinacea at the beginning of the disease can reduce the duration and severity of the symptoms of colds. However, it is important to start taking echinacea as early as possible, at the first signs of the disease in order to get the maximum effect.

• Influence on the flu: Although most studies are focused on the influence of echinacea on colds, some studies also studied its effectiveness against influenza. The results of these studies show that echinacea can have antiviral activity against some strains of influenza virus, but additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

It is important to note that the results of studies of echinacea can vary depending on various factors, such as the type of echinacea, the used part of the plant, the dosage, the method of use and the individual characteristics of the body. In addition, the quality of research can also vary, which complicates an unambiguous assessment of the effectiveness of Echinacea.

How to choose a quality drug Echinacea: what to pay attention to

The choice of a quality drug Echinacea is crucial for ensuring its effectiveness and safety. When choosing the drug Echinacea, the following factors should be taken into account:

• Type of echinacea: It is preferable to choose drugs based on Echinacea purple (Echinacea Purpurea) or Echinacea of narrow -leaved (Echinacea angustifolia), since these types are most studied and have the most pronounced healing properties.

• Part of the plant: Different parts of the Echinacea plant contain different concentrations of active substances. Some studies show that echinacea roots extracts can be more effective than the extracts of aboveground parts. However, most often the roots and aboveground parts in the complex are used.

• Method of extraction: The extraction method affects the quality and composition of the extract. It is preferable to choose drugs obtained by the CO2-examination method or water-alcohol extraction, since these methods allow you to maintain the maximum amount of active substances.

• The content of active substances: Pay attention to the content of active substances, such as alkylamides, polysaccharides and coffee acid, indicated on the packaging. The higher the content of these substances, the more effective the drug will be.

• Standardization: Choose drugs that have undergone standardization, which guarantees the constant content of active substances in each batch of the product.

• Manufacturer: Give preference to drugs from well -known and reliable manufacturers who comply with quality and safety standards.

• Output form: Echinacea is available in various forms of release, including tablets, capsules, tinctures, extracts and syrups. Choose the form of release, which is most convenient for you.

• Certification: Make sure that the drug is certified by the relevant quality control organs.

Before using any Echinacea drug, it is recommended to consult a doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have any chronic diseases or take other medicines.

Ways to use echinacea for the prevention of colds

Echinacea can be used in various forms for the prevention of colds:

• Preventive course: For the prevention of colds, it is recommended to take echinacea with courses lasting 2-3 weeks, with breaks between courses. The dosage depends on the form of the release of the drug and the individual characteristics of the body.

• At the first signs of colds: When the first signs of colds appear, such as a runny nose, sore throat or weakness, you can increase the dosage of echinacea to support the immune system and accelerate recovery.

• During the period of increased risk of infection: During the period of increased risk of infection of colds, for example, in the winter or during epidemics, you can take echinacea for preventive purposes.

• In combination with other means: Echinacea can be combined with other means to strengthen immunity, such as vitamin C, zinc, probiotics and other plant immunomodulators.

It is important to observe the recommended dosages and not exceed them, since excessive use of echinacea can cause side effects.

Side effects and contraindications of echinacea

Echinacea is considered a relatively safe plant, but in some cases its use can cause side effects. The most common side effects of echinacea include:

• Allergic reactions: In people with allergies to the plants of the Astrov family (chamomile, ambrosia, calendula, etc.), echinacea can cause allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, urticaria, Quincke’s edema and anaphylactic shock.

• Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract: In rare cases, echinacea can cause disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.

• Headache and dizziness: Some people may experience headache and dizziness after taking echinacea.

• A fever of body temperature: In rare cases, echinacea can cause a slight increase in body temperature.

Echinacea is contraindicated in the following cases:

• Autoimmune diseases: Echinacea can aggravate the symptoms of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis and others.

• Progressive systemic diseases: Echinacea is not recommended for progressive systemic diseases, such as tuberculosis, AIDS and others.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of the use of echinacea during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, so it is not recommended to take it during these periods.

• Childhood: Echinacea is not recommended for children under 12 years of age without consulting a doctor.

• Individual intolerance: With individual intolerance to echinacea, its use is contraindicated.

Before using echinacea, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any chronic diseases or take other drugs.

Echinacea interaction with other drugs

Echinacea can interact with some drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect. Before using Echinacea, it is necessary to inform the doctor about all the drugs taken. It is especially important to consider the following possible interactions:

• Immunocationthretarite: Echinacea can reduce the effectiveness of immunosuppressants, such as cyclosporine, azathioprine and others.

• Antifungal drugs: Echinacea can enhance the toxicity of some antifungal drugs such as ketoconazole and itraconazole.

• Antiviral drugs: Echinacea can interact with some antiviral drugs such as proteases used to treat HIV infection.

• Drugs metabolized by the enzymes of cytochrome P450: Echinacea can affect the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes, which can change the metabolism and concentration of many drugs in the blood.

It is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist in order to avoid undesirable interactions between Echinacea and other drugs.

Recommendations for the use of echinacea to achieve the maximum effect

To achieve the maximum effect of the use of echinacea, it is recommended to comply with the following recommendations:

• Start reception at the first signs of colds: The sooner you begin to take echinacea when the first signs of colds appear, the higher the likelihood that it will help reduce the duration and severity of the symptoms.

• Follow the recommended dosages: Do not exceed the recommended dosages indicated on the packaging of the drug or recommended by the doctor.

• Take echinacea courses: For the prevention of colds, it is recommended to take echinacea with courses lasting 2-3 weeks, with breaks between courses.

• Choose a quality drug: Choose echinacea preparations from well -known and reliable manufacturers who have undergone standardization and containing a sufficient amount of active substances.

• Combine echinacea with other means: To strengthen the immunity and increase the efficiency of echinacea, you can combine it with other means, such as vitamin C, zinc, probiotics and a healthy lifestyle.

• Consult a doctor: Before using echinacea, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any chronic diseases or take other drugs.

Alternative and complementary methods for the prevention of colds

In addition to echinacea, there are many other alternative and complementary methods that can help in the prevention of colds:

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and promotes antibodies.

• Zinc: Zinc plays an important role in the functioning of the immune system and can help reduce the duration of the cold.

• Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that maintain intestinal health and strengthen the immune system.

• Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in regulating the immune response and can help reduce the risk of infection with respiratory infections.

• Garlic: Garlic has antibacterial and antiviral properties and can help strengthen the immune system.

• Ginger: Ginger has anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can help alleviate the symptoms of colds.

• Honey: Honey has antibacterial and anti -inflammatory properties and can help relieve sore throat and cough.

• Healthy lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep and rejection of bad habits, plays an important role in strengthening the immune system and preventing colds.

Echinacea in pediatrics: Features of use in children

The use of echinacea in children requires special caution and consultation with a doctor. Although Echinacea is considered relatively safe, its use in children under 12 years of age is not recommended without preliminary consultation with a pediatrician. This is due to the fact that the immune system of children has not yet been fully formed, and the risk of developing allergic reactions may be higher.

If the doctor allows the use of echinacea in a child, the following recommendations must be followed:

• Choose special children’s forms of release: For children, special forms of echinacea are produced, such as syrups and chewing tablets, with reduced dosage.

• Strictly follow the dosage: The dosage of echinacea for children depends on the age and weight of the child. It is necessary to strictly observe the dosage recommended by the doctor or indicated on the package of the drug.

• Observe the reaction of the child: After taking echinacea, it is necessary to carefully monitor the reaction of the child to the drug. When any side effects appear, such as skin rash, itching or disorder of the gastrointestinal tract, it is necessary to stop taking echinacea and consult a doctor.

• Do not use echinacea for autoimmune diseases: Echinacea is contraindicated in children with autoimmune diseases.

Echinacea and pregnancy: risks and warnings

The use of echinacea during pregnancy is a controversial issue. Some studies show that echinacea may be safe during pregnancy, while other studies do not provide sufficient security evidence. In this regard, most doctors recommend avoiding the use of echinacea during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.

The risks associated with the use of echinacea during pregnancy include:

• Allergic reactions: Pregnant women are more prone to develop allergic reactions to plant drugs, including echinacea.

• Impact of the development of the fetus: There is not enough data on the influence of echinacea on the development of the fetus.

• Interaction with other drugs: Echinacea can interact with other drugs that a pregnant woman takes.

If a pregnant woman fell ill with a cold, she should consult a doctor to obtain recommendations for treatment. There are safe and effective methods of treating colds during pregnancy, which do not require the use of echinacea.

Echinacea and breastfeeding: Recommendations for nursing mothers

Information on the safety of the use of echinacea during breastfeeding is limited. Some sources claim that echinacea in small doses can be safe for nursing mothers, while other sources recommend avoiding its use.

Since there are not enough data on the safety of echinacea for babies, nursing mothers are recommended to avoid its use, especially during the first few months of the child’s life. If the nursing mother fell ill with a cold, she should consult a doctor to receive recommendations for treatment.

Echinacea in sports: influence on immunity and physical endurance

Echinacea can be useful for athletes, as intensive training can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infection of colds. Some studies have shown that the intake of echinacea can help strengthen the immune system of athletes and reduce the risk of respiratory infections.

In addition, some studies show that echinacea can have a positive effect on physical endurance. For example, one study showed that the intake of Echinacea Purpournaya for four weeks improves endurance among cyclists.

However, it is important to note that additional studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal dosage and duration of echinacea for athletes.

Echinacea in cosmetology: Application for skin health

Echinacea is also used in cosmetology due to its anti -inflammatory, antioxidant and wound healing properties. Echinacea extracts are added to cosmetics for skin care, such as creams, lotions and masks.

Echinacea can help with the following skin problems:

• Acne and acne: Echinacea has anti -inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation and redness with acne and acne.

• Eczema and dermatitis: Echinacea can help alleviate itching and inflammation for eczema and dermatitis.

• Wounds and cuts: Echinacea has wound healing properties and can help accelerate the healing of wounds and cuts.

• Dry and irritated skin: Echinacea can help moisturize and calm dry and irritated skin.

When using cosmetics with echinacea, it is necessary to follow the instructions for use and avoid getting into the eyes.

Echinacea in veterinary medicine: application for animal treatment

Echinacea can also be used in veterinary medicine for the treatment of various diseases in animals, such as cats, dogs and horses. Echinacea can help strengthen the immune system of animals, accelerate wound healing and alleviate the symptoms of respiratory infections.

Echinacea can be used in veterinary medicine in the following cases:

• Respiratory infections: Echinacea can help alleviate the symptoms of respiratory infections in animals, such as coughing, runny nose and difficulty breathing.

• Wounds and cuts: Echinacea can help accelerate the healing of wounds and cuts in animals.

• Urinary tract infections: Echinacea can help prevent and treat urinary tract infections in animals.

• Dermatitis and eczema: Echinacea can help alleviate itching and inflammation for dermatitis and eczema in animals.

The dosage of echinacea for animals depends on the type of animal, its weight and the severity of the disease. It is necessary to consult a veterinarian before using echinacea in animals.

Echinacea research prospects: What awaits us in the future

Despite the fact that echinacea is one of the most studied plant drugs, its research and safety studies continue. Future research will be directed to:

• Studying the exact mechanisms of the action of Echinacea: A deeper understanding of the mechanisms of the action of echinacea at the cellular and molecular level is necessary.

• Determination of optimal dosages and methods of application: It is necessary to determine the optimal dosages and methods of using echinacea for various age groups and health conditions.

• Studying the effectiveness of echinacea against various strains of viruses: It is necessary to study the effectiveness of echinacea against various strains of viruses, including influenza viruses and coronaviruses.

• Development of new echinacea -based drugs: It is necessary to develop new drugs based on echinacea with improved bioavailability and effectiveness.

• Conducting large -scale clinical research: It is necessary to conduct large -scale clinical research to confirm the effectiveness and safety of Echinacea.

The results of these studies will help expand our knowledge about Echinacea and develop more effective and safe methods for its use for the prevention and treatment of various diseases.

Conclusion

Echinacea is a valuable plant drug that can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infection of colds. However, before the use of echinacea, it is necessary to consult a doctor and take into account possible side effects and contraindications. The choice of a quality drug of echinacea and compliance with the recommended dosages also are also crucial to achieve the maximum effect.