Echinacea is known as effective in improving immunity, with the parts such as leaves, roots, and flowers often extracted to improve immunity. Still, how effective is the plan in treating flu?
Researches show that Echinacea extract can fight respiratory viruses, including influenze. Several researches show that Echinacea extract can fight respiratory viruses in vivo. Researches in 2009 and 2010 show that the use of Echinacea for four months and lower 26% of flu duration. Another research also shows that Echinacea extract can reduce the risk of influenza infection by 58% and the infection duration by one to four days.
Through the researches the appropriate doses of Echinacea are found to reduce or prevent flu:
- Powdered extract 300mg
- Liquid extract 0.25-1.25ml
- Tincture 1-2ml
- Tea 0.5-1 gram
However, avoid Echinacea consumption over eight weeks because it can weaken the immunity.
Echinacea is effective to be consumed upon the appearance of symptoms for seven to 10 days. The use of Echinacea is also safe for pregnant women, with a research showing that Echinacea consumption during pregnancy does not negatively affect the foetus.
Text by Rezky Zakiri
Stock photos from Google Search Images
Source(s):
- Echinacea. 2009. Antiviral properties of Echinacea Purpurea against Influenza virus
- H5N1, H7N7 and H1N1 in vitro. Virology Journal.
- Echinacea (2018). https://www.drugs.com/npp/echinacea.html.
- WebMD - Echinacea (2016). https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/echinacea#1
- WebMD - Vitamins and Supplements for Cold and Flu Relief (2016). https://www.webmd.boots.com/cold-and-flu/flu-guide/vitamins-supplements-colds-flu-relief?page=3
- WebMD - Echinacea for The Common Cold (2017). https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/echinacea-common-cold#2