Echinacea 'halves colds risk'
Updated on 25 June 2007
A herbal remedy traditionally used to ward off infections can reduce the chances of catching a cold by more than half, according to new research.
Echinacea, made from a group of related North American plants, also helps colds clear up more quickly, the findings suggest.
Scientists in the US pooled together evidence on the anti-cold properties of Echinacea from 14 different studies. Combining the results, they found that taking the product decreased the overall risk of catching a cold by 58%. And the duration of colds was reduced by an average of 1.4 days.
The researchers, led by Dr Craig Coleman from the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, reported their findings in the journal The Lancet Infectious Diseases. They wrote: "An analysis of the current evidence in the literature suggests that echinacea has a benefit in decreasing the incidence and duration of the common cold."
However, they stressed that the possible risks of taking echinacea needed further investigation before the remedy could be recommended to patients. Rare reported side effects have included stomach upsets, nausea and dizziness.
Nine species of Echinacea, also known as purple cornflower, are indigenous to North America.
The plant was considered a potent medicine by Plains Indians, and became popular as a herbal remedy in both Europe and America in the 1930s.
It is reputed to boost the immune system and fight infection. The three species most commonly used for their medicinal value are Echinacea angustifolia, E. pallida and E. purpurea.
The US scientists identified more than 800 products containing Echinacea. Different parts of the plant, the flower, stem or root, were used in different products.
How the plant exerts its biological effects is still unknown.
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