Echinacea
Nutraceutical
Immune System |
Echinacea extracts are obtained from roots or herb of different species belonging to Echinacea genus (angustifolia DC, pallida (Nutt.) Nutt. or purpurea (L.) Moench).
Bioactive molecules of the phyto-complex are several, particularly caffeic acid esters and cynarin, besides different polyyens, flavonoids and poly-saccharides.
Echinacea is a plant with a long and consolidated use in traditional medicine, for example among American Native populations that used it as a remedy for animals stings and bites. Nowadays extracts are mainly indicated to support and boost immune system, particularly in cases of infections of ears and nose, in the prevention of cold and flu episodes and to avoid recurrence of infections of the ears, respiratory and urinary tracts.