Superfoods & Botanicals
Echinacea
Also known as: Echinacea purpurea · Purple coneflower · Echinacea angustifolia
The world's most popular herbal immune supplement. Alkylamides activate CB2 receptors and macrophages. Cochrane review confirms modest reductions in cold incidence and duration.
Effective Dose
300–500mg × 3/day (acute); 1–2×/day (prevention)
per clinical evidence
Evidence Level
Moderate
Superfoods & Botanicals
Mechanism
Alkylamide CB2 agonism, macrophage activation, cytokine modulation
primary action
Best For
Immune stimulation
Cold prevention, Cold duration reduction
This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
What Is Echinacea?
Echinacea is derived from the purple coneflower (primarily Echinacea purpurea and E. angustifolia). It is the most widely sold herbal supplement globally for immune support. Alkylamides are the primary lipophilic bioactives, with polysaccharides and caffeic acid derivatives contributing additional immunological effects.
How It Works: The Science
Alkylamides bind CB2 (cannabinoid type 2) receptors on macrophages and T-cells, modulating cytokine production and phagocytic activity. They also inhibit COX-1/2 and 5-LOX (mild anti-inflammatory). Echinacea polysaccharides activate macrophages and increase interferon-gamma production. The net effect is enhanced innate immune readiness without excessive inflammatory signalling.
Primary Mechanism
Alkylamide CB2 agonism, macrophage activation, cytokine modulation
Evidence-Based Benefits
Dosage Guide
Effective Dose
300–500mg × 3/day (acute); 1–2×/day (prevention)
300–500mg purpurea extract (4% alkylamides) 3× daily for active cold treatment; 1–2× daily for prevention during cold/flu season. Do not use continuously for >8–10 weeks — cycle off for 2+ weeks.
Safety Profile & Side Effects
Avoid in autoimmune conditions (immune stimulation may exacerbate). Rare allergic reactions (most common in those with daisy family allergy — ragweed, chrysanthemum). Potential interaction with immunosuppressants.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It
Those wanting immune support during cold/flu season, athletes post-competition (immunosuppression window), and anyone with frequent respiratory infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ingredients
Medical Disclaimer
Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →