Echinacea Research Dashboard
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Overview - Echinacea
Description of Echinacea
Several known species of echinacea are commonly found in North America. Also known as coneflowers it has been used in traditional medicines by Native Americans for many symptoms such as pain, cough, and sore throat.
Parts used include flowers, roots, and leaves.
The most commonly used species for dietary supplementation are Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia.
In the 1900s, echinacea was the most frequently used plant preparation in the USA. There are more than 400 medical articles and numerous that examine the plant's constituents, therapeutic properties, and the mechanisms by which they are realized.
The true identity of its active ingredients (Echinacea purpurea-derived alkylamides) was until very recently considered elusive. It wasn't until 2006 that researchers discovered that echinacea binds with CB2 receptor with about half the strength of THC, the psychoactive principal cannabinoid of cannabis. Once CB2 receptors are activated, all of the proven therapeutic functions of CB2 are realized but without mind-altering effects.
Other Names:
Echinacea (Coneflower)Alkylamides (from Echinacea) that interact with the ECS:
- dodeca-2E,4E,8Z,10Z-tetraenoic acid isobutylamide (plus numerous other supplier-based synonyms)
Molecular Formula: C16H25NO
Source–PubChem
- dodeca-2E,4E-dienoic acid isobutylamide (plus numerous other supplier-based synonyms)
Molecular Formula: C16H29NO
Source–PubChem
Echinacea Properties and Effects
Only Members can view Properties and Effects information. See DEMO page.
Echinacea Receptor Binding
Only Members can view Receptor Binding information. See DEMO page.
Disclaimer
Information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own licensed physician or other medical professional. You
should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. If using a product, you should read carefully all product packaging. If you have or suspect that you have a
medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.
Information on this site is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.
