In the United States, Echinacea is consistently in the top ten herbal medications sold. But does it actually work? The exact way in which Echinacea works is unknown.
Some small studies show the Echinacea may have slight anti-inflammatory effect. It may also stimulate the body’s white blood cells to attack “germs.” There are several different molecules that make up Echinacea. Scientists have yet to determine which ones are actually working.
When you gather roots, leaves, twigs, or other parts of plants for medication, there is no definitive way of knowing exactly how much of the “medicine” is actually in there. Do some individual plants have extra active ingredient due to different species, different plant parts, extraction methods, more or less sunlight, more or less water, or different soils types?
A recent large study, funded by the government, was conducted to determine if Echinacea is effective. The result: those who took Echinacea got the common cold about 85% of the time, those who took a sugar pill got the common cold about 85% of the time. Yes, the same percentage. Also, the amount of nasal secretions, length if cold, and cold severity were all the same compared to sugar pill takers. The conclusion of the study was that Echinacea is not effective in treating or preventing the common cold.
Echinacea is also in the same family as ragweed, mums, marigolds, and daisies. So people with allergic conditions like asthma should avoid Echinacea. It is also know that Echinacea interacts with medications such as some antibiotics, estrogen, certain beta blockers, some HIV medications, calcium channel blockers, and statins(cholesterol medication).
So what is the best way to prevent the common cold? The best way is frequent handwashing and avoiding people with colds. This is more affective and much less expensive than taking any herbal product like Echinacea.
The Rx Cost Cutters advice, don’t waste your money on the product. There are no definitive studies by reputable scientists that conclude Echinacea is effective. You will find some studies that say the herb is effective. When you look deeper into the study, you will find that they were conducted by the company trying to sell the product to you.
Dr. West Conner is a pharmacist, consultant, speaker, and the author of the incredibly popular “How To Save Money On Your Prescription Drugs.” He is currently active in assisting clients who are having difficulty affording their prescription drugs. Through his many years of practice, Dr. Conner has developed a number of unique and creative ways to lower prescription costs. He is also a frequent radio and television guest personality. Visit www.rxcostcutters.com for more details. |
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