Echinacea
Echinacea, what is it? It's a flowering plant from North America, traditionally valued for its strong immune-supporting properties.
The Great Health Benefits of Echinacea
Echinacea can contribute to the body's natural defenses and promote immune system health. The botanical is shown to protect against colds, flu (influenza), and other upper respiratory tract infections.
Various bioactive compounds are present in different echinacea species and plant parts. Many products contain a single species or specific plant component.
- Phenolic compounds can deliver antiviral and antioxidant activity, helping protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Polysaccharides can support immune function and help maintain a balanced inflammatory response.
- The polysaccharide compounds can activate immune cells, including macrophages, which play a role in the body's natural defense mechanisms.
- Activated macrophages release signaling molecules that support the activity of natural killer (NK) cells.
- Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia are two of the most studied species for immune support.
- These botanical extracts work with your body's innate defense systems to help maintain immune resilience.