Echinacea is a group of flowering plants commonly used to boost immune function and reduce cold symptoms.
300-500 mg standardized extract, three times daily at onset of symptoms.
Moderate evidence from a mix of studies with varying quality.
Methodology
Meta-analysis
Participants
0 subjects
Key Outcomes
Modest reduction in cold duration across 14 studies
Shah et al. (2007). Lancet Infectious Diseases
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Methodology
Randomized controlled trial
Participants
719 subjects
Key Outcomes
Slight reduction in cold severity
Barrett et al. (2010). Annals of Internal Medicine
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Methodology
Cochrane review
Participants
0 subjects
Key Outcomes
Confirmed modest benefits in cold treatment
Karsch-Völk et al. (2014)
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Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.