An Evaluation of Echinacea angustifolia in Experimental Rhinovirus Infections

Either placebo or a preparation of chemically defined extracts from Echinacea angustifolia root was administered to 399 volunteers before or after inoculation with rhinovirus. These rigorously controlled studies found no evidence that echinacea is effective in treating or preventing the common cold. These rigorously controlled studies found no evidence that echinacea is effective in treating or preventing the common cold. The common cold is a benign and self-limited illness most commonly caused by the rhinoviruses. Although the importance of the common cold derives primarily from its frequency and from the enormous socioeconomic impact it has, it is clear that the common cold in general and rhinovirus infection in particular are associated with significant medical consequences. 1 – 8 There are no specific antiviral treatments for rhinovirus infection. Perhaps because of the lack of specific therapies, concern about the risks relative to the benefits of treatments for symptoms, and the relatively benign nature of the common cold, there is wide interest in the . . .