The immunomodulatory and antiviral potential of Echinacea spp.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.29296/25877305-2021-07-08
Issue:
7
Year:
2021
Herbal medicines (phytopreparations) made from Echinacea plants are widely used in the treatment
and prevention of upper respiratory diseases caused by cold and influenza viruses. The purpose of this
investigation is to evaluate the immunomodulatory and antiviral potential of Echinacea. The authors have
conducted a systematic literature review showing that among the nine existing Echinacea species, only
Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, and Echinacea purpurea have similar properties in the modulation
of the immune system. The pharmacological effect of Echinacea species is associated with four classes of
compounds: caffeic acid derivatives, polysaccharides, glycoproteins, and alkamides. Numerous in vitro and in
vivo experimental and clinical findings show that Echinacea extracts stimulate the production of interferons
and cytokines, contribute to the increased activity of phagocytes and natural killer cells, enhance the
synthesis of immunoglobulins, and have a direct antiviral activity against influenza and cold viruses.
Studies indicate that the aboveground parts and roots of Echinacea have antiviral activity against influenza
virus, herpes simplex virus, and coronavirus. Echinacea extracts have also been established to be able to
affect antitumor immunity components. The data available in scientific literature on the efficacy of
Echinacea preparations in treating upper respiratory diseases are quite contradictory, which makes it
necessary to conduct additional clinical trials using specific standardized medicines. The review study has
demonstrated that the timely addition of Echinacea to the combination therapy of acute respiratory viral
infection can contribute to a faster recovery and prevent the development of complications.
Keywords:
infectious diseases
Echinacea
cold
immunomodulatory effect
antiviral activity
phytopreparations
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