Echinacea extract is derived from the Echinacea plant, which has some immune-supporting properties that enhance immune system function, fight infection, anti-inflammation, and promote good health. Derived from natural plants, relatively safe. Echinacea purpurea extract, also known as purple conelower, is a plant extract included in skin care products for its antioxidanproperties and its anti-aging and soothing benefits. Echinacea Polyphenols is the stem, leaf and root extract of Echinacea Purpurea, family Asteraceae. It is yellow-brown powder. The active ingredients are amides, caffeic acid ester derivatives, flavonoids and volatile oils, etc. Echinacea has good anti-inflammatory effect and can improve the symptoms of bronchitis in children.
Active Substances Contained
1. Phenolic Compounds:
Cichoric Acid: A potent Antioxidant that enhances immune response.
Caftaric Acid: Another phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Echinacoside: An anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial phenolic compound.
2. Polysaccharides:
Heteroxylan and Arabinogalactan: These sugars help modulate the immune system, supporting overall immune health.
3. Alkamides:
Bioactive compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects. Alkamides also enhance the activity of other compounds in the extract.
4. Glycoproteins: Known for their immune-enhancing effects, glycoproteins stimulate white blood cell activity.
5. Flavonoids: Natural antioxidants, like quercetin, that provide anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects.
6. Volatile Oils: Echinacea contains essential oils with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Specific Effects of Echinacea Purpurea Extract
1. Immune System Support:
Echinacea is widely known for its ability to stimulate the immune system. It increases the activity of white blood cells, particularly macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells, which are crucial for defending against infections. The polysaccharides, glycoproteins, and alkamides in the extract all contribute to enhancing immune function, helping the body fight off colds, flu, and other infections.
2. Antioxidant Effects:
The phenolic compounds, particularly cichoric acid, provide powerful antioxidant properties, protecting cells from oxidative stress. This helps in reducing damage from free radicals, which can lead to inflammation and chronic diseases.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
The alkamides and phenolic acids in Echinacea purpurea extract exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This makes the extract useful for managing conditions involving inflammation, such as arthritis and other chronic inflammatory diseases.
4. Antimicrobial Activity:
Echinacea purpurea has demonstrated antimicrobial effects, helping to fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Its use is particularly noted in reducing the severity and duration of upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold and flu.
5. Wound Healing:
Echinacea’s polysaccharides, flavonoids, and essential oils promote wound healing. It has been used topically to treat skin conditions, minor wounds, burns, and insect bites due to its ability to reduce inflammation and promote tissue regeneration.
6. Respiratory Health:
Echinacea purpurea extract helps in relieving symptoms of respiratory infections, including sore throat, coughing, and congestion. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties are particularly beneficial in alleviating respiratory discomforts.
7. Cold and Flu Prevention:
Research suggests that Echinacea may help prevent colds and reduce their duration. By stimulating immune function and reducing inflammation, Echinacea extract shortens the duration and severity of cold symptoms, especially when taken at the first sign of infection.
8. Potential Antiviral Effects:
Some studies indicate that Echinacea may exhibit antiviral activity against certain viruses, including influenza and herpes simplex virus. The alkamides and phenolic compounds are thought to inhibit viral replication and modulate immune responses to viral infections.
9. Anti-Anxiety Effects:
Preliminary research suggests that Echinacea purpurea extract, particularly its alkamides, may have mild anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the brain.
10. Skin Health:
Echinacea extract is used in skincare products for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It can help treat acne, reduce skin inflammation, and promote the healing of minor skin irritations.
11. Lymphatic Support:
Echinacea purpurea supports lymphatic system health by helping the body eliminate toxins and waste more effectively. It aids in lymph drainage, reducing swelling and promoting detoxification.
Applications of Echinacea Purpurea Extract
1. Dietary Supplements:
Echinacea is commonly found in capsules, tablets, and tinctures, marketed for immune support, especially for preventing and treating colds and flu.
2. Herbal Teas:
Echinacea is a popular ingredient in immune-boosting herbal teas, often combined with other herbs like elderberry and ginger.
3. Topical Applications:
Creams and ointments containing Echinacea extract are used to treat wounds, minor burns, and skin conditions due to its wound-healing and antimicrobial properties.
4. Skincare Products:
It is used in formulations for acne treatment, anti-aging products, and general skin health due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
