What are the benefits of taking echinacea?
Echinacea may play a role in fighting off various infections, including upper respiratory tract infections. Some data shows that echinacea can treat urinary tract infections, ear infections, and wounds or cuts that are slow to heal. 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 or vitamin C better?
Echinacea is typically used short-term, not as a daily supplement. Long-term use may reduce its effectiveness. Echinacea vs Vitamin C—which is better? Vitamin C supports general immune health. Echinacea is more targeted for short-term use. Using echinacea for longer than 8 weeks at a time might damage your liver or suppress your immune system. Herbalists recommend not to take echinacea if you are taking medicines known to affect your liver. Check with your doctor first if you are having any other drugs, herbs, or supplements.
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. Some herbalists say you shouldn’t take echinacea for longer than 8 weeks. This is due to possible side effects. But a study in Cardiff in 2012 seemed to show that it is safe to take for up to 4 months. You can also buy echinacea ointment to help heal skin wounds.At the onset of a cold, gandhi recommends taking echinacea for seven to 14 days to strengthen the immune system and help fight the infection. Since herbs and supplements are not regulated by the food and drug administration (fda), there is no standard recommended dosage for echinacea.