Echinacea supplements are dietary supplements that contain Echinacea spp extracts. They are made by various extraction processes such as drying and powdering the flowers, leaves and roots of Echinacea. The powders are then used to make teas, capsules, tablets and liquid tinctures to treat various symptoms and health conditions.
Some of the top Echinacea supplement producers are Gaia Herbs, Wise Woman Herbals, Herb Pharm, Nature’s Way, Metagenics, and Vital Nutrients. These supplement producers have all been certified by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and follow GMP, WHO, and other authorized rules for product quality management.
Echinacea plants contain a complex mix of active compounds, such as alkamides, caffeic acid, phenolic acids, polyacetylenes, rosmarinic acid, and many others. The active components seem to modulate immune function in the body, suggesting that it may aid with colds and faster recovery after an illness. Echinacea supplements become more expensive as the quality of products increases and the price of Echinacea supplements ranges from $7 to $53 per bottle. The amount differs depending on the supplement form, the strength of the active compounds present, addition of other ingredients, dosage, the number of servings per container, and shipping costs.
Based on Verified Market Research, the Global Echinacea Extract Market is projected to reach USD 2.88 Billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 8.25% between 2020 to 2027. Echinacea supplements have long been a part of natural medicine and are recognized for their powerful medicinal properties. We have compiled a list of some of the best Echinacea supplements available in the market.
1. Gaia Herbs Echinacea Goldenseal Throat Spray 1 Oz (The Best for Sore Throat and Prevention)
Gaia Herbs Echinacea throat spray contains goldenseal, bee propolis, licorice, and peppermint that helps provide comfort when your throat hurts. Singers and others who suffer from throat stress use this product. The polysaccharides and arabinogalactan Proteins present in Echinacea help support ongoing immune function and are generally used long-term for immune support. The roots of Echinacea harvested in the fall possess high quantities of alkylamides and help sustain a beneficial inflammatory response in the sinuses, but should not be used long-term.
With the support of the National Centers for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Gaia Herb has conducted extensive research on the activity of seeds, roots, and flowering tops of Echinacea during several phases of their development. Gaia Herbs sources its ingredients for its supplements as much as possible from its organic farm in Brevard, North Carolina. The herbs are brought to Gaia Herbs’ production facility for extraction to create its products. Gaia Herbs assures users of the final product’s potency using its patented Liquid Phyto Caps Technology for its manufacture. According to Gaia Herbs, the Liquid Phytocaps Technology allows for the “absorption of concentrated plant extracts.”
Link to Purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/gaia-herbs/echinacea-goldenseal-throat-spray-1-oz
Nutritional value: Each serving (3 sprays) contains 45 mg of propolis extract and 190 mg of proprietary Echinacea extract blend.
Price range: $11.19- $13.99
Producer: Gaia Herbs
Its form: Liquid
Is it vegan: Yes
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Proprietary Blend of Echinacea extract, Goldenseal rhizome, Peppermint Leaf, Oregon Grape Root, Propolis Liquid Extract, Thyme Leaf, Licorice Root, Water, Grain Alcohol
Dosage: Spray extract into the back of the throat 3 times hourly. For short-term use, users should only use it for up to 8 hours per day. Do not use this throat spray during pregnancy or lactation and if you’re allergic to bee products.
2. Herb Pharm Echinacea 1 Oz (Best for Fast Immune Support)
This whole root Echinacea extract from Herb Pharm helps provide foundational support for all seasons. This product is made from fresh, organically grown roots of Echinacea purpurea, which are organically grown and harvested on the farm. The herb is immediately taken to their laboratory and extracted while still fresh to ensure optimal extraction. Each herb’s identity is assured using HPTLC ( High-performance thin-layer chromatography) fingerprinting and other procedures tailored for each herb.
The company sources raw ingredients for its products from its farm in Southern Oregon, where it grows more than 65 herbs. The herbs that cannot be grown in those environmental conditions such as maca, which only grows in South America, for instance, are sourced from other farmers. According to Herb Pharm, each herb undergoes a rigorous risk assessment to ensure it is not contaminated. If the herb passes the test, only the relevant plant part is extracted to ensure a higher concentration of phytochemicals, the chemicals produced by plants that are believed to yield health benefits. Herb Pharm says it doesn’t just follow its stringent guidelines in creating its products. It also follows the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Processes (GMP) and subjects its facilities to third-party audits.
Link to purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/herb-pharm/echinacea-1-oz
Nutritional value: Each serving contains 350 mg of fresh Echinacea extract.
Price range: $11.99 – $14.49
Producer: Herb Pharm
Its form: Liquid
Is it vegan: Yes
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Certified organic grain alcohol, distilled water & Echinacea extractives.
Dosage: Mix 30 to 40 drops in a little water, two to five times per day.
3. Nature’s Way Echinacea Goldenseal 100 Caps
The Echinacea & Goldenseal formula from Nature’s Way helps support a healthy immune system. Native Americans have long used these plants for a wide range of health benefits. With Nature’s Way Echinacea-Goldenseal, you get the power of these two herbs combined with burdock root, gentian root, cayenne pepper, and wood betony herbs to help boost your immunity.
Nature’s Way was the first company to achieve Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification from the National Sanitation Foundation and still leads the market today. It takes pride in its rigorous processes that ensure the quality of its products. According to Nature’s Way, its ingredients are sourced from trusted suppliers all over the world, many of whom have had decades of experience in farming. These ingredients were harvested following their sustainable practices. According to Nature’s Way, once the ingredients are harvested, they undergo rigorous testing in the company’s state-of-the-art laboratory. Many of its products are TRU-ID-certified, which means what consumers find in the product label is exactly what’s inside the bottle.
Link to purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/natures-way/echinacea-goldenseal-100-caps
Nutritional value: Each serving of two capsules contains 900 mg. of Echinacea herb blend.
Price range: $16.98- $ 22.34
Producer: Nature’s Way
Its form: Capsule
Is it vegan: No
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Proprietary Blend: Organic Echinacea purpurea (stem, leaf, flower), Goldenseal (Root), Echinacea angustifolia (root), Burdock (root), Gentian (root), Cayenne Pepper (fruit), Wood Betony (stem, leaf, flower). Other Ingredients: Gelatin (Capsule).
Dosage: Take 2 capsules twice daily, preferably with food.
4. Metagenics Echinacea Synergy 120 Tabs (Best for Respiratory Health)
The Metagenics Echinacea Synergy formula is a botanical combination of selected extracts, together with a patented Perilla seed extract, historically used to promote respiratory health and immune function. The ingredients in each tablet include Perilla, licorice, and ginger, which have traditionally been used for supporting respiratory health.
Metagenics has dedicated over 30 years to scientific discovery, unmatched quality, and state-of-the-art practitioner partnerships that have positioned them as functional nutrition leaders. As the first practitioner-exclusive supplement brand in the US, they make quality testing information available online for every formula they create. They also have a LEED-certified corporate headquarters in Aliso Viejo, CA. A LEED certification is awarded to buildings that regulate greenhouse gas emissions use less water and energy. The company adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and is certified by three independent organizations every year.
Link to Purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/metagenics-echinacea-synergy-120-tabs
Nutritional value: Each serving contains 300 mg of Echinacea extract.
Price range: $46.95- $53.00
Producer: Metagenics
Its form: Tablet
Is it vegan: Yes
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose, Ultra Potent-C® (calcium ascorbate, niacinamide ascorbate, ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, magnesium ascorbate, L-lysine HCI, ascorbyl palmitate, citrus bioflavonoid complex, potassium ascorbate, tetrasodium pyrophosphate, alpha D-ribofuranose, L-cysteine HCl, xylitol, and L-glutathione), stearic acid (vegetable), croscarmellose sodium, silica, and coating (hypromellose, medium-chain triglycerides, and hydroxypropylcellulose)
Dosage: Take one tablet twice daily or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.
5. Vital Nutrients Echinacea Extract 1000 Mg 60 Vegcaps (Highest Dose Echinacea)
Echinacea Vcaps from Vital Nutrients helps support macrophages that aid in healthy antibody production, thereby promoting a healthy immune response. It is free of coatings, binders, and gluten and is independently tested for authenticity and potency. This supplement could help maintain a healthy immune system during stressful and frustrating times.
Vital Nutrients supplements are manufactured in their own strictly controlled FDA Inspected facility. To ensure optimum potency and safety from environmental contaminants, they have implemented a cutting-edge Quality Assurance program that surpasses industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Link to Purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/vital-nutrients/echinacea-extract-1000-mg-60-vcaps
Nutritional value: Each serving contains 1000 mg Echinacea purpurea herb extract.
Price range: $24.30- $28.50
Producer: Vital Nutrients
Its form: Vegcaps
Is it vegan: Yes
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose Capsule, Cellulose, Leucine, and Silica.
Dosage: Swallow 2 capsules 1 to 2 times daily, or as directed by your healthcare professional.
6. Ancient Nutrition Echinacea + Astragalus 60 Cap
This supplement by Ancient Nutrition features 880 milligrams of an immune support blend of Echinacea and Astragalus. It has 2 billion CFUs* of Bacillus subtilis that help promote normal microflora in the gut, healthy gut function, and regular digestion. Echinacea and astragalus are commonly recommended as health boosters, and they are amongst the top trending ingredients for immune support. Astragalus is derived from traditional Chinese medicine and pairs well with Echinacea as it is a balancer.
Ancient Nutrition launched the R.A.N.C.H. project, which stands for its commitment pillars: Regenerative Agriculture, Nutrition & Climate Health. An innovative, first-of-its-kind process aims to build topsoil, eliminate waste, and sequester carbon dioxide while supporting the company’s mission to transform human health with the power of history’s most potent superfoods. The company is dedicated to sourcing its ingredients with integrity and transparency. As part of the R.A.N.C.H. Project, they are taking steps to expand their mission of a better planet for future generations by being more regenerative and sustainable.
Nutritional value: Each serving contains 880 mg of Echinacea and Astragalus extract.
Price range: $19.90- $24.95
Producer: Ancient Nutrition
Its form: Capsule
Is it vegan: Yes
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Echinacea extract, Astragalus extract, Bacillus subtilis, Hypromellose, rice fiber.
Dosage: Take 2 capsules per day with 8 ounces of water or a favorite beverage.
7. Nutricology Echinacea Plus 60 Vegcaps (Best for Lung Support)
The Echinacea Plus Vcaps from Nutricology is a combination of two botanicals, Ivy (Hedera helix) and Echinacea purpurea. Both plants have a long account of traditional usage for respiratory tract health. Echinacea EFLA® 894 is the main active component in this product. The concentrated extract of freshly harvested blooming flowers of Echinacea purpurea is dried, cold-pressed and standardized to ß-1,2-D-fructofuranosidase at a 45:1 ratio. Echinacea EFLA® 894 has clinical and preclinical research indicating that it improves immune defenses and promotes a balanced immune response during stress. On the other side, Ivy is a traditional treatment for bronchial irritation and respiratory health, based on current studies in kids and adults.
Nutricology was one of the first companies to recognize chemical hypersensitivities and develop genuinely hypoallergenic products to the market. For more than 40 years, this nutraceutical company has provided accessible and professional-grade nutritional support. In addition to their in-house quality control department, they utilized certified independent analytical laboratories to test their raw material and finished products. Each of their products meets the cGMP quality requirements established by the FDA.
Link to Purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/nutricology-echinacea-plus-60-vegcaps
Nutritional value: Each serving contains 230 mg of Echinacea purpurea extract and 25 mg of Ivy (leaf) extract.
Price range: $29.89- $41.08
Producer: Nutricology
Its form: Vegcaps
Is it vegan: Yes
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Echinacea purpurea extract, Ivy (Leaf) Extract, Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, Nu-MAG rice extract, rice hulls, gum arabic, sunflower oil.
Dosage: Take one capsule one or two times daily with or without food, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.
8. MediNatura Professional Reboost Decon Echinacea +6 Nasal Spray 20 Ml (Best for Stuffy Nose)
MediNatura’s New ReBoost Nasal Spray with Echinacea includes six natural actives including organic Echinacea to relieve flu and cold symptoms. In addition to its powerful botanical and mineral ingredients, it provides targeted symptom relief with a mild saline base that helps to hydrate dry nasal passageways. It doesn’t make your nose dry, jittery, or loopy as some sinus medications can. ReBoost’s Nasal Spray is also free of the “rebound effect” associated with decongestant sprays.
Before its creation in 2014, MediNatura was a U.S. subsidiary of Germany’s Heel GmbH, the world’s second-largest homeopathic company. The company follows the homeopathic philosophy of its founder, H.H. Reckeweg, MD. His decades of research and medical practice found that using multiple natural active ingredients was more effective than a single functional remedy. All MediNatura products are made in facilities inspected by the FDA regularly. Their most popular retail brand is T-Relief, an Arnica-based pain reliever with 12 additional natural ingredients. Most of their OTC products are manufactured in their facility in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Link to Purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/medinatura/reboost-decongestion-nasal-spray-20-ml
Nutritional value: Each serving contains seven microdoses of seven natural active ingredients.
Price range: $12.99- $13.99
Producer: MediNatura
Its form: Liquid
Is it vegan: Yes
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Argentum nitricum, Euphorbium officinarum, Hepar sulphuris calcareum, Luffa operculata, Mercurius iodatus ruber, Mucosa nasalis, Pulsatilla, Sinusitisinum. Inactive Ingredients: benzalkonium chloride 0.01%, isotonic saline solution, sodium dihydrogen phosphate dihydrate, disodium phosphate dihydrate.
Dosage: Adults and children 12 years and older: 2 sprays into each nostril every 2-4 hours. Do not exceed 24 sprays in each nostril in 24 hours. Children 4 to 11 years: 1 spray into each nostril every 2-4 hours. Do not exceed 12 sprays into each nostril in 24 hours. For children under 4 years, consult your health professional.
9. Herbalist & Alchemist Ultimate Echinacea 2 Oz (Strongest Echinacea)
The Ultimate Echinacea from Herbalist & Alchemist contains a proprietary blend of Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, and Echinacea purpurea. This herbal supplement helps balance the body’s immune function and should not be used if you have severe ragweed allergies. H&A’s proprietary blend is combined with certified organic, USP pharmaceutical grade alcohol.
Herbalist & Alchemist (H&A) was founded by David Winston, RH, and the chief herbal formulator of the company. He is also an herbalist, ethnobotanist and the co-founder of the American Herbalist Guild. His clinically formulated treatments are based on roughly 300 herbs, many of which have had successful outcomes in the past. Their formulations are created using a BIO-SPECIFICTM technique based on traditional knowledge of each plant’s chemistry, character, and energetics. The Spagyric alchemical extraction technique is used to create their BIO-SPECIFIC™ products. After the liquid extraction is finished, the spagyric process burns the plant material. The plant is reduced to white ash of pure and soluble minerals, also known as calcining. A complete-spectrum tincture is produced when the liquid is combined with it. H&A is the first herbal supplements company to become a Certified B Corp™ which has strict standards for verification of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
Link to purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/herbalist-alchemist/ultimate-echinacea-2-oz
Nutritional value: Each serving contains
Price range: $23.19- $27.29
Producer: Herbalist & Alchemist (H&A)
Its form: Liquid
Is it vegan? Yes
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Proprietary Blend of extracts from Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, Echinacea purpurea, and Echinacea purpurea. Other ingredients: Distilled water, ethyl alcohol.Certified Organic alcohol, distilled water
Dosage: Put 40-60 drops (2-3 mL) in juice or water and take 4-6 times daily.
10. Similasan Nighttime Kids Cough & Cold Relief 4 Fl Oz
Similasan’s nighttime kids cough and cold syrup helps soothe cold symptoms, such as coughing, mucus, and congestion. Its homeopathic ingredients work to stimulate the body’s natural defenses rather than mask the symptoms. This syrup is formulated with natural ingredients such as mountain flax, copper extracts, and the Echinacea immunity blend. Its natural grape flavor is suitable for kids ages two and above.
With over 35 years of experience, Similasan is a trusted Swiss brand of medicines that uses natural active ingredients rather than harsh chemicals to maintain families’ health. Similasan has been named the most trusted Swiss healthcare brand by Reader’s Digest for 14 years in a row. Similasan homeopathic medicines are created by the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and adhere to traditional homeopathic principles.
Link to Purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/similasan-usa/kids-cough-fever-relief-syrup-4-fl-oz
Nutritional value: Each serving contains
Price range: $7.99- $8.29
Producer: Similasan
Its form: Liquid
Is it vegan? Yes
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Echinacea, Belladonna, Drosera (Sundew), Laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel), Rumex Crispus, Senega Officinalis (Mountain Flax), Verbascum Thapsus, Zincum Metallicum (Zinc). Inactive Ingredients: Sorbitol, Purified Water, Grape Flavor, Citric Acid
Dosage: Age: 2-12, Dose: 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp), Frequency: 3-6 times daily (every 4 hours)
Age: 12+, Dose: 5 ml (1 tsp), Frequency: 3-6 times daily (every 4 hours)
11. Energetix Core Echinacea 2 Oz
Energetix Core Echinacea is a key botanical that assists in maintaining a healthy immune response and microflora balance. It’s created using a proprietary, hand-made technique called Spagyric processing, which involves extracting the aerial portion of the herb. During this procedure, raw materials are divided into component parts. As they pass through the system, the oil-soluble, water-soluble, non-mineral, and mineral elements of the plant are removed. The components are then reintegrated into one material. As a result, you get a pure, concentrated, high-quality, and bioavailable Echinacea product. It’s available in liquid form, making it easy to absorb and applicable for adults and children.
Since 1997, Energetix has been an innovator in bioenergetic medicine that produces products that distinguish the body’s energetic fields and an appreciation of the body as a whole. Energetix has offered a range of highly-integrated botanical, nutritional, and homeopathic products to forward-looking healthcare professionals with non-suppressive, therapeutic formulations. The company offers over 120 products that are meant to work together. They have been produced with carefully sourced ingredients to ensure the best quality products.
Link to purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/energetix/core-echinacea-2-oz
Nutritional value: Each serving contains 1.2 ml of Echinacea purpurea extract.
Price range: $26.10- $30.00
Producer: Energetix
Its form: Liquid
Is it vegan: Yes
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Echinacea Purpurea, Purified Water, Ethyl Alcohol 22-28%.
Dosage: Take 1/4 tsp (1.2mL) or 30 to 40 drops orally (in water or juice, if desired) twice daily or as directed by a healthcare professional.
12. Planetary Herbals Yin Chiao-Echinacea Complex 60 Tabs
The Yin Chiao-Echinacea Complex of Planetary Herbals blends the time-tested classic Yin Chiao with America’s most well-known immune-boosting botanical, Echinacea. Yang Chiao is a traditional Chinese herbal combination that has been used for centuries to help maintain good health throughout the seasonal shift. The combination of Notopterygium and Chinese Isatis and the North American herbal tradition elecampane meets this active health cocktail that boosts macrophage activity and helps generate white blood cells. The following fortifying and immune-boosting herbs are used in this prized formula: honeysuckle flower, Platycodon root, Forsythia fruit, Phragmites root, Burdock seed, soy sprout, Chinese mint leaf, licorice root, Lophatherum leaf and Schizonepeta aerial parts.
Planetary Herbals states that it has control over every stage involved in the manufacturing of its products. Once the raw ingredients are sourced, a team evaluates the composition of each ingredient and assesses for any possible contamination and its chemical composition using both classical and modern methods. These methods include spectrophotometry, which involves the use of light to determine the amount of a specific chemical in a given compound, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry that requires ionizing a sample to evaluate for the presence of heavy metals. Planetary Herbals does not specify how each product is manufactured on its website but attests to the “purity and authenticity” of each raw ingredient. It also noted that before the final products are packaged, they are tested anew to ensure the accuracy of the final product labels.
Link to purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/planetary-herbals/yin-chiao-echinacea-complex-60-tabs
Nutritional value: Each serving contains 1.2 grams of proprietary blend Yin Chiao extract complex and Echinacea extract.
Price range: $14.98- $15.50
Producer: Planetary Herbals
Its form: Tablets
Is it vegan: Yes
Is it for the immune system? Yes
Ingredients: Notopterygium root, Yin Chiao Extract complex, Echinacea purpurea root extract, Horehound aerial parts extract, Cinnamomum spp. bark extract, Elecampane root extract, Isatis root extract, Isatis leaf extract, Dibasic calcium phosphate, stearic acid, modified cellulose gum, and silica.
Dosage: Consume two tablets twice daily between meals.
How To Use An Echinacea Supplement?
When using Echinacea supplements, consider the following:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or as directed by your physician, pharmacist, or healthcare practitioner.
- Echinacea supplements taken by mouth are best consumed with a glass of water.
- You may also use Echinacea powder in various foods and beverages, teas and juices. It enables you to reap the advantages of Echinacea while still obtaining various flavors.
- Enteric-coated pills should be swallowed whole, not crushed, chewed, or broken. The enteric coating is meant to protect the stomach. Breaking the pill can damage its coating.
What Are The Possible Risks (Side-Effects) Of Echinacea Supplements?
The risks and side-effects of Echinacea are mainly due to a previous history of allergies. The allergy is strongly linked to a ragweed allergy, which may indicate echinacea-induced side effects. People who have autoimmune diseases or are on immunosuppressive medications should speak with their doctors before taking Echinacea. Although it appears to be safe in the short term, its long-term consequences are largely unknown.
Those who suffer from respiratory allergies and asthma are more likely to experience the following adverse effects.
- Hives
- Flushing
- Rashes
- Swelling
- Nausea
- Throat burning
- Abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
What Is The Main Benefit And Use For Echinacea Supplement?
According to systematic evidence by health and medicine experts, Echinacea species work in the body as an immunomodulator, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory.
Immunomodulator: The immunological effects of a wide range of Echinacea preparations, including different species, plant parts, and extraction types, have been studied extensively in vitro and in vivo. The data taken together show that echinacea compounds have immunological effects. However, at present, there is no clear picture as to which particular preparations have the most impact as indicators of macrophage activity. Echinacea has been shown to enhance macrophage function in studies using various methods, such as the carbon-clearance assay and assessment of cytokine production.
Fresh pressed juice and dried juice extracted from the aerial parts of E. purpurea increased the production of cytokines, including interleukin (IL) -1, -10, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), according to in vitro studies with human macrophages led by Dr. R. Burger as published in the International Journal Of Immunopharmacology.
Following simulated digestion (incubation of Echinacea with gastric fluid), E. purpurea activated macrophages in vitro (as assessed by TNF-alpha production) to reproduce the effects of oral administration, according to a study by Dr. Rininger J. A. et al. as announced in the Journal Of Leukocyte Biology.
Based on a 2000 study led by Dr. Vinti Goel as per The Journal Of Nutritional Biochemistry, In vivo (rats) studies have demonstrated that water-ethanol extracts (100 L twice daily by oral gavage for four days) of E. purpurea roots and aerial parts containing specific amounts of cichoric acid, polysaccharides, and alkamides increased macrophage phagocytosis. With increasing concentrations of the three components, the activity has also increased.
Antiviral: Following in-vitro studies, various echinacea extracts have been found to have antiviral activity. The n-hexane extract of E. purpurea root, an ethanolic extract of E. pallida var sanguinea herb, and the isolated component cichoric acid were the most effective antivirals against HSV-1 in vitro research to evaluate light-activated antiviral effectiveness according to Dr. Binns, S. et al., as stated in the Planta Medica journal.
Dr. Wacker A. et al. conducted an in-vitro study using mouse fibroblasts which were published in the same journal. They revealed that pre-incubated E. purpurea herb juice and methanolic and aqueous extracts of E. purpurea root inhibited Influenza A2, herpes virus, and vesicular stomatitis virus infections for 24 hours.
Antifungal: Dr. Binns and his colleagues conducted a separate study about the antifungal activity of Echinacea. They found out that n-Hexane extracts of E. purpurea roots have been shown to effectively combat yeast species, including Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans. The antifungal activity was observed under near UV light illumination. E. purpurea root extracts produced a pure polyacetylenic compound trideca-1-ene-3,5,7,9,11-pentane that exhibited significant light-mediated cell death in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Anti-inflammatory: A 1985 study by Dr. E. Tragni et al., as stated in the Pharmacological Research Communications journal, reported that an aqueous extract of E. angustifolia roots was more effective than benzydamine in the croton oil test. The anti-inflammatory effect was attributed to high and intermediate molecular weight extracts, which were further investigated in the croton oil test with fractional aqueous administration to mice.
The echinacoside isolated from E. angustifolia root and other caffeoyl esters were found to have a protective effect against free radical-induced degradation of collagen, an experimental model for skin damage caused by exposure to UV light According to a 1995 study by Dr. Facino, M. et al. as per the Planta Medica journal.
What Are The Forms Of Echinacea Supplements?
As with many supplements, Echinacea is available in several different forms to satisfy consumers’ preferences and consumption requirements. The following are the different supplement forms of Echinacea supplements.
- Echinacea Pills: Echinacea tablets and capsules may be composed solely of standardized Echinacea extracts or combined with other herbal extracts. Tablets are a combination of Echinacea’s active components and excipients combined into a solid form. They are most frequently coated to make ingestion and absorption easier. Tablets can also be made containing only Echinacea but most often include a combination of other herbal extracts and compounds.
- Tablets: A combination of Echinacea`s active components and excipients combined into a solid form. Tablets are most frequently coated to make ingestion and absorption easier. They come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and dosages. Tablets have a longer shelf life than capsules, may also include more additives and are absorbed at a much slower rate.
- Capsules: A capsule is a soft-shelled pill containing a powdered version of Echinacea encased in gelatin, cellulose, or similar material shells. Supplement suppliers prefer gelatin capsules since they dissolve quickly at body temperature. Vegetable capsules are made from plant cellulose (a non-meat product comparable to gelatin) for vegetarian or vegan consumers. The soft gels make them more easily swallowable while ensuring that the herbal extract is safely enclosed. It is worth noting that capsules can be devoid of excipients and are typically purer than tablet turmeric supplements.
- Echinacea powder is the ground form from cultivated Echinacea roots. This is an organic and chemically-unprocessed Echinacea supplement that contains no additives. It may also be used to make an excellent nutritional supplement in smoothies, teas, and juices, as well as oatmeal and cereal. You can also combine it into pasta and vegetable dishes, among other things. For dogs suffering from upper respiratory tract infections, echinacea powder can be prescribed as an alternative treatment according to Dr. Reichling, J. et al. as stated on the National Library Medicine website.
What Is The Difference Between Liquid And Pill Echinacea Supplements?
Liquid Echinacea supplements are better absorbed by the body. They do not require digestion, which can slow down their uptake in the cells. However, they often come with a strong flavor that some users can’t handle. In contrast, pills require a bit more time to dissolve and digest in the intestines but are near-flavorless. Pills are typically easy to swallow and can be taken regularly as part of your daily routine.
Is Liquid Echinacea Supplement Better Than Echinacea Pills?
Yes, because liquid extracts have a greater absorption rate, are easier to digest, and have a higher extraction efficiency. Liquids can also be easier to take than pills, especially when mixed with another beverage. The most significant advantage of drinking liquid Echinacea supplements rather than tablets is that they are readily absorbed in the body. Liquid Echinacea also has the added benefit of not requiring you to swallow pills every day.
Does Echinacea Powder Supplement Have Less Nutritional Value?
The answer is sometimes. Echinacea powder is pure Echinacea and may or may not have the same nutritional content compared to other forms because not all Echinacea supplements are made equally. Some forms are standardized and can contain a specific percentage of concentrated alkamides, making them more potent than pure whole powder.
Should I Buy Gluten-Free Echinacea?
You should buy gluten-free Echinacea supplements because they do not contain gluten or ingredients from wheat, rye, or barley. The starches found in non-gluten-free Echinacea supplements can be used in tablets and capsules as excipients, diluents, disintegrants, or binding agents in low-quality supplement manufacturers. Due to the assurance that there are no hidden gluten compounds in gluten-free Echinacea supplements, people with certain health conditions, such as Celiac disease, prefer them.
Who Are The Best Producers Of Echinacea Supplements?
Echinacea supplements are produced by several different companies that have their own take on the traditional way of supplementing with Echinacea. Here is a list of some well-known producers of Echinacea supplements.
- Wise Woman Herbals
- Gaia Herbs
- Nature’s Answer
- Nature’s Way
- Herb Pharm
- Metagenics
- Pure Encapsulations
- Oregon’s Wild Harvest
How Does Premier Formulas Choose The Best Echinacea Supplements?
At Premier Formulas we only select Echinacea supplements that have undergone an extensive assessment of documented proof that the manufacturing company follows federal cGMP regulations and guidelines. Samples of their products from our own inventory must also pass initial and quarterly randomized testing from independent laboratories. Our key mission is to provide high-quality supplements and the information for our patrons to use them in an educated, effective and safe manner. We want you to know that we care about your health when choosing your Echinacea supplements. After all, we give the same products to our family as we provide to you and your family.
What Parts Of Echinacea Plant Are Used For Supplements?
The parts of Echinacea that can be used as ingredients for its health benefits are as follows:
- Roots: Echinacea root is most often found in tinctures and pills manufactured commercially and used by many home herbalists. This part is the most commonly used in supplements. They also serve as the raw material for Echinacea extract. The highest levels of cichoric acid were found in 40% ethanol solution from roots and flowers.
- Leaves: Echinacea grows basal leaves arranged around the base of a stem and cauline (or radical) leaves along its aerial stem. The leaves are arranged alternately and are normally hairy with a rough texture. The leaves and flower buds are most often collected for herbal tea. Purple coneflower leaves produced the highest concentration of caftaric acid, which has health-enhancing qualities.
- Flowers: Echinaceas have purple flowers, hence their common name purple coneflowers. There are outer droopy (ray) florets with teeth at the ends of the inner (disk) florets, which end in spines. A daisy-shaped head unit is made up of many tiny florets. Like their leaves, flower buds are most often concocted into tea but are to be used in moderation.
References:
- Echinacea Extract Market Size, Share, Trends And Forecast. (2022). Retrieved 23 January 2022, from https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/product/echinacea-extract-market/#
- Burger, R., Torres, A., Warren, R., Caldwell, V., & Hughes, B. (1997). Echinacea-induced cytokine production by human macrophages. International Journal Of Immunopharmacology, 19(7), 371-379. doi: 10.1016/s0192-0561(97)00061-1
- A, R., S, K., P, C., A, M., & Z, F. (2000). Immunopharmacological activity of Echinacea preparations following simulated digestion on murine macrophages and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Journal Of Leukocyte Biology, 68(4). Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11037971/
- Goel, V., Chang, C., Slama, J., Barton, R., Bauer, R., Gahler, R., & Basu, T. (2002). Echinacea stimulates macrophage function in the lung and spleen of normal rats. The Journal Of Nutritional Biochemistry, 13(8), 487-492. doi: 10.1016/s0955-2863(02)00190-0
- Binns, S., Hudson, J., Merali, S., & Arnason, J. (2002). Antiviral Activity of Characterized Extracts fromEchinaceaspp. (Heliantheae: Asteraceae) against Herpes simplexVirus (HSV-I). Planta Medica, 68(9), 780-783. doi: 10.1055/s-2002-34397
- Wacker, A., & Hilbig, W. (1978). Virushemmung mit Echinacea purpurea. Planta Medica, 33(01), 89-102. doi: 10.1055/s-0028-1097364
- Binns, S., Purgina, B., Bergeron, C., Smith, M., Ball, L., Baum, B., & Arnason, J. (2000). Light-Mediated Antifungal Activity of Echinacea Extracts. Planta Medica, 66(03), 241-244. doi: 10.1055/s-2000-8573
- Tragni, E., Galli, C., Tubaro, A., Del Negro, P., & Della Loggia, R. (1988). Anti-inflammatory activity of Echinacea angustifolia fractions separated on the basis of molecular weight. Pharmacological Research Communications, 20, 87-90. doi: 10.1016/s0031-6989(88)80848-8
- Maffei Facino, R., Carini, M., Aldini, G., Saibene, L., Pietta, P., & Mauri, P. (1995). Echinacoside and Caffeoyl Conjugates Protect Collagen from Free Radical-Induced Degradation: A Potential Use ofEchinaceaExtracts in the Prevention of Skin Photodamage. Planta Medica, 61(06), 510-514. doi: 10.1055/s-2006-959359
- Reichling, J., Fitzi, J., Fürst-Jucker, J., Bucher, S., & Saller, R. (2003). Echinacea powder: Treatment for canine chronic and seasonal upper respiratory tract infections. Schweizer Archiv Für Tierheilkunde, 145(5), 223-231. doi: 10.1024/0036-7281.145.5.223