Echinacea is one of the most popular herbs worldwide. It’s best known as an over-the-counter herbal remedy for the common cold or flu. However, it’s also used to treat pain, inflammation, migraines and other health issues.
We recommend the A. Vogel Echinaforce if you want to optimize your immune defense and add Echinacea to your lifestyle.
What is echinacea?
Echinacea is the name of a group of flowering plants in the daisy family. Both the plant’s upper parts and roots are used in tablets, tinctures, extracts and teas. Echinacea plants contain a variety of active compounds, such as caffeic acid, alkamides, phenolic acids, rosmarinic acid, polyacetylenes, etc.
Below are the top health benefits of Echinacea:
1) High in antioxidants
Echinacea is loaded with antioxidants, such as flavonoids, cichoric acid and rosmarinic acid, which may help defend your body against oxidative stress.
2) Positive effect on the immune System
Echinacea is best known for its beneficial effects on the immune system. Studies have found that this plant may help your immune system combat infections and viruses, which could help you recover faster. That’s one reason why echinacea is often used to prevent or treat the common cold!
3) May lower blood sugar levels
High blood sugar can raise your risk of serious health problems. This includes type 2 diabetes, heart disease and several other chronic conditions. Studies suggest that Echinacea may help lower blood sugar levels.
4) May reduce feelings of anxiety
Anxiety is a common problem that affects close to one in five adults. In recent years, echinacea plants have emerged as a potential aid for anxiety.
5) Have Anti-inflammatory properties
Inflammation is your body’s natural way of promoting healing and defending itself. Sometimes inflammation can get out of hand and last for longer than necessary. This may raise your risk of chronic diseases and other health problems. Several studies have shown that echinacea can help reduce excess inflammation.
6) May help treat skin concerns
Research has shown that echinacea plants may help treat common skin concerns. Similarly, a cream containing Echinacea purpurea extract was shown to improve eczema symptoms and help repair the skin’s thin, protective outer layer.
All in all, echinacea has been shown to improve immunity, blood sugar, anxiety, inflammation and skin health. It may even have anti-cancer properties. However, human-based research on these benefits is often limited.