Echinacea

Echinacea has white to bright pink petals and a dark reddish-orange center. It is in the Daisy family. Echinacea gained popularity in the United States in the 1800s and in Germany in the 1920s. Echinacea is often used to support the immune system in treating colds, the flu, and other illnesses, infections, and conditions. But does it work to put herpes in remission?

There are nine different species of echinacea, with three varieties typically used in various treatments. However, while it has been used for multiple conditions, studies still need to substantiate its effectiveness. The U.K. gave echinacea to 50 people with HSV-2 for six months, and a placebo to another 50 for the same period. There was no significant difference in the frequency of herpes outbreaks between the two groups.

Echinacea isn't an antiviral herb. Echinacea is an immunostimulant with some antimicrobial properties and is high in antioxidants, so you shouldn't use echinacea if you have an autoimmune disorder. While numerous studies have examined echinacea, the results are mixed. Some studies have shown that it can reduce the duration of a cold or flu by 1 to 2 days, while others suggest it works no better than a placebo. For example, researchers in the U.K. compared it with a placebo and found no difference in the control group after 6 months.

Topical remedies that claim to harness echinacea's healing power against the Herpes Simplex Virus are false. While echinacea can boost the immune system, it does not directly affect the herpes virus.

Echinacea is available as a supplement or as tea for its immunostimulating benefits. However, echinacea should be cycled. Generally, I suggest ten days on and at least seven days off. Taking echinacea for long periods can lower your white blood cell count. It can also interfere with certain drugs.

Children under 12 are more sensitive to echinacea and shouldn't be given it, as 7% develop a rash that could be an allergic reaction.

Some echinacea products are tainted with arsenic, lead, or selenium.

When added to your regimen, echinacea can't hurt, but it isn't one of my top choices for managing viral symptoms, such as colds, flu, and cold sores. Still, you can add echinacea to herbal blends for additional immune support.

Information about antiviral herbs that help ease stress and viral-related symptoms can be found in The Wellness Repository.