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Echinacea purpurea
This herb is NOT recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus.
This herb is NOT recommended while breastfeeding as effects on infants are unknown.
Consult your healthcare provider before use.
This herb may interact with medications you are taking. Review the interactions table below and consult your healthcare provider before use.
Echinacea is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family, native to North America. It was traditionally used by Native American tribes for a wide range of conditions including infections and snake bites. Today it is one of the most popular herbal supplements worldwide, primarily used for immune system support.
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea/pallida/angustifolia) is the most popular herb for immune support, though clinical evidence is mixed. E. purpurea aerial parts have the strongest evidence for cold prevention and treatment.
Alkamides, caffeic acid derivatives (echinacoside), and polysaccharides modulate immune function. Echinacea stimulates phagocytosis, increases white blood cell counts, and has mild anti-inflammatory effects. It does NOT significantly boost cytokines.
Common cold duration reduction
Cochrane: modest 1.4-day reduction if started early
Common cold prevention
Daily use shows modest preventive effect
Immune support
Increases phagocytic activity
Upper respiratory infections
Modest effect on severity
| Drug | Severity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cyclosporine | Severe | Echinacea's immune-stimulating properties may counteract the immunosuppressive effects of cyclosporine, risking organ rejection. |
| Methotrexate | Moderate | Echinacea may interfere with methotrexate's immunosuppressive effects and potentially increase hepatotoxicity risk with prolonged use. |
| Corticosteroids (Prednisone) | Moderate | Echinacea may partially counteract the immunosuppressive effects of corticosteroids. |
| Tacrolimus | Severe | Echinacea may reduce the effectiveness of tacrolimus by stimulating the immune system that tacrolimus is designed to suppress. |
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