Benefits of Echinacea - Try Our Packed Purple

You may think of using echinacea to help shorten your cold or flu, but it has more health benefits, ranging from supporting your immune system to antiaging properties.

• Echinacea is a popular remedy for upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold and flu. Scientists believe that the antiviral effect against enveloped coronaviruses would make it helpful in the prevention of COVID-19

• Studies evaluating echinacea demonstrate that extracts support the innate and adaptive immune system through several pathways. Additionally, echinacea could lower chronic inflammatory markers and alleviate memory impairment

• Echinacea has demonstrated the ability to suppress cancer cell growth in the lab by triggering pancreatic and colon cancer cell apoptosis. Echinacea can help lower anxiety levels and one study demonstrated some antidepressant activity

• Native Americans used echinacea to treat skin disorders, including eczema and psoriasis. Topical use may speed wound healing and has demonstrated significant antiaging activity

• People who are allergic to flowers in the daisy family or those with atopy may have a higher risk of allergic reaction to echinacea, including anaphylaxis; people taking an immunosuppressant medication or tamoxifen should not use echinacea

While echinacea has been widely used for centuries, it is still necessary to exercise caution. High doses may lead to insomnia, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and dizziness. People who are taking immunosuppressant medications or tamoxifen should not use echinacea. Echinacea may also interfere with other medications, so talk with your pharmacist or physician to be sure it's safe for you to take.

Taken from Dr, Mercola Blog Post