Does echinacea help if you’re already sick?
Does it work? Many studies have been done on echinacea’s effect on the common cold. So far, researchers have not found conclusive evidence on its effectiveness. They don’t believe that taking it after you come down with a cold will shorten the time you are sick. Today, echinacea products are primarily promoted as a dietary supplement for the common cold and other respiratory tract infections, based on the idea that certain species of echinacea may stimulate the immune system.Recent research has shown that echinacea extract has antiviral effects, which may protect against many viruses that affect the respiratory system, including coronaviruses. This extract helps the body produce IFN-γ, which is involved in immune function and controlling inflammatory chemicals.
Is echinacea good for cold and flu?
Echinacea helps the body produce more germ-eating cells called macrophages, which protect your body’s immune system by searching out and destroying common cold and flu viruses and bacteria. So, if you’re looking to keep sickness at bay, feeding your immune system echinacea is one good way! Echinacea should be avoided in patients with autoimmune disorders, multiple sclerosis, advanced HIV infection, tuberculosis, and organ transplants because it may stimulate T cells. Allergic reactions are possible in patients with allergies to ragweed, chrysanthemum, marigold, daisies, or related allergens.