Echinacea plants are native to the Midwestern regions of North America. A few different echinacea species are long-standing traditional treatments for numerous health disorders, although the herb fell out of favor in the United States once antibiotics were introduced in the 20th century, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. In contrast, echinacea has become increasingly popular in Germany, where the government regulates herbs and where most of the research has been conducted on the effects of this herbal remedy. Standard Process is a brand name for a specific echinacea supplement.
Uses
In Germany, Echinacea purpurea is approved for treating the common cold and other upper respiratory tract infections, as well as urinary tract infections and slow-healing wounds. Echinacea pallida root is approved for treating flu-like infections. In countries where herbal remedies are not regulated, people mainly use echinacea to reduce symptoms and shorten the duration of the common cold and flu. Herbalists also recommend echinacea to enhance the immune system and treat sinus infections, vaginal yeast infections, ear infections and athlete's foot, according to the UMMC.
The Common Cold
Research results are mixed on whether echinacea is effective at preventing or treating the common cold, as noted by the UMMC. Some studies indicate that if people take echinacea at the onset of a cold, illness severity is reduced and fewer symptoms occur, compared with people who do not take the herb. A review of studies cited by the UMMC found that taking echinacea decreased the chances of developing a cold by 58 percent and the duration of a cold by up to four days. However, some studies show no beneficial effects.
Echinacea-C Ingredients
The echinacea product available from Standard Process Inc., called Echinacea-C, includes a proprietary blend of echinacea and buckwheat along with the antioxidant vitamin C from rose hips and acerola berry. Each tablet contains 5.4 mg of vitamin C and 198 mg of the blend Echinacea angustifolia root, Echinacea purpurea root, dried buckwheat leaf juice and buckwheat seed. This vegetarian product also contains honey and calcium stearate. Standard Process recommends taking one tablet per meal, or as directed by your health care provider.
Echinacea-C Function
Standard Process offers an echinacea supplement to support the immune system, according to the official website. Echinacea helps various types of white blood cells in the process of destroying dead and foreign cells, a process called phagocytosis, explains Standard Process Inc. It also increases the number and activity of certain white blood cells. Buckwheat juice and seed are included for their mineral content and B vitamins, and flavonoids known as the vitamin P complex. These flavonoids help with the absorption of vitamin C, and also are beneficial for capillary and connective tissue health.
Expert Insight
The UMMC confirms that laboratory and animal studies support the claim that active substances in echinacea boost immune system activity. These substances also appear to relieve pain, decrease inflammation and have antiviral effects.
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