Echinacea is a wild plant native to North America belonging to the Asteraceae family. Different parts of this plant containing several biologically active substances are used. It is found in various forms: fresh or dried roots, tea, powder, extract, tablet, etc. It is often used to prevent or treat upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold. Let’s explore together what research observes on this subject.
Echinacea and upper respiratory tract infections
A systematic review with meta-analysis published in 2019 evaluated the safety and efficacy of echinacea in the prevention, duration, and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. The study observes a significant effect in preventing upper respiratory tract infections, but no impact on the duration of symptoms. The study also observes no short-term safety risks. Finally, regarding the treatment of these infections, the evidence for echinacea’s efficacy is limited. In conclusion, this review suggests that echinacea may have a preventive effect on the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections, but not on their duration or treatment. Lastly, concerning safety, echinacea appears to be safe in the short term. However, these observations are limited by the heterogeneity of the included studies (e.g., use of different echinacea-based preparations).
Possible side effects of echinacea
Echinacea can cause mild and transient side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and digestive symptoms. Additionally, people allergic to certain plants, such as daisies and marigolds, may have an allergic reaction to echinacea. In general, echinacea is contraindicated in individuals with autoimmune disorders, AIDS, tuberculosis, and multiple sclerosis, as well as in cases of organ transplantation. Finally, echinacea supplements are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Possible interactions of echinacea with medications
Echinacea can interact with certain medications, such as immunosuppressants. Immunocompromised individuals or those with autoimmune diseases should consult their doctor before consuming echinacea.
Cold prevention
Although studies suggest that echinacea may have a preventive effect on the incidence of the common cold, it does not prevent catching it. Adopting good health habits, such as frequent hand washing, is one of the best ways to minimize risks. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) offers some habits to adopt to reduce the risks of contracting and/or transmitting the cold virus:
- Wash hands frequently
- Cough and sneeze into the elbow crease or use a tissue and dispose of it immediately after
- Avoid close contact with sick people
- Avoid touching your face (mouth, nose, eyes)
- Clean and disinfect surfaces likely to be contaminated
- Maintain physical distancing between people (e.g., 1 to 2 meters, teleworking, etc.)
References
- https://www.merckmanuals.com/fr-ca/professional/sujets-sp%c3%a9ciaux/compl%c3%a9ments-alimentaires/%c3%a9chinac%c3%a9e
- https://www.merckmanuals.com/fr-ca/accueil/sujets-particuliers/compl%C3%A9ments-alimentaires/%C3%A9chinac%C3%A9e
- https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/echinacea
- David, S., & Cunningham, R. (2019). Echinacea for the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary therapies in medicine, 44, 18–26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2019.03.011
- https://www.unlockfood.ca/fr/Articles/Foire-aux-questions/Le-point-sur-le-systeme-immunitaire.aspx
- http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/CropOp/fr/herbs/medicinal/echin.html
- https://www.cchst.ca/oshanswers/diseases/common_cold.html