Cold season is in full swing, and this means you’re on the lookout for any possible way to avoid getting struck down by a nasty case of the sniffles, or worse, the flu. You’ve heard of Echinacea before, the herbal remedy that claims to help combat those annoying cold symptoms and get you back on your feet in no time, but does it really work?
New research may have found that the answer is yes – at least, in part. A study conducted by a team at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health determined that taking Echinacea supplements could help reduce cold symptoms’ duration by an average of seven to 10 hours.
The Science Behind Echinacea
The lead researcher for this study, Bruce Barrett, explained his team’s findings: “Trends were in the direction of benefit, amounting to an average half-day reduction in the duration of a week-long cold or an approximate 10 percent reduction in overall severity.”
The study involved approximately 700 subjects between the ages of 12 and 80, and while these findings are promising, Barrett admits that more research with a larger group is necessary to provide more definite answers.
But how exactly does Echinacea work in helping reduce cold symptoms? Echinacea is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants in the daisy family and has been used for centuries as a traditional herbal remedy for various ailments.
Echinacea is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-viral properties, which are thought to help support the immune system and potentially shorten the duration of the common cold. Additionally, Echinacea may help alleviate symptoms such as a sore throat and cough and also act as a natural pain reliever.
The Importance of Immune Support
While taking Echinacea supplements may help reduce cold symptoms duration, it’s essential to remember that maintaining a strong immune system is key to minimizing your chances of getting sick in the first place.
Here are some effective ways to support your immune system besides taking Echinacea:
1. Vitamin C and Vitamin D
Both vitamins C and D have been shown to help boost the immune system. Vitamin C, found in fruits like oranges and berries, aids in the production of white blood cells, which are crucial in fighting off infections. Vitamin D, on the other hand, is produced when your skin is exposed to sunlight and plays a crucial role in keeping your immune system healthy.
2. Green Tea
Green tea is packed with antioxidants and has been shown to have a protective effect on your immune system. Drinking green tea or taking green tea supplements can help keep your immune system strong during cold and flu season.
3. Probiotics
Maintaining a healthy gut is essential to overall health and immunity. Taking probiotics can help improve gut health by introducing beneficial bacteria, which in turn supports your immune system. You can find probiotics in supplements or fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.
4. Exercise
Regular exercise is not only important for overall health, but it also helps support your immune system. Exercise can help improve circulation, allowing your body’s cells and substances in the immune system to move more freely and perform their jobs more effectively.
5. Sleep
Your immune system relies on sleep to function at its best. A lack of sleep can hinder your immune system’s ability to fight off viruses and bacteria. Make sure you’re getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help support your immune system.
The Bottom Line
While Echinacea may not be a miracle cure for the common cold, there is research to support its effectiveness in reducing cold duration and potentially alleviating symptoms. Coupling that with maintaining a strong immune system through proper care of your body can be the key to avoiding those pesky colds during this time of year.
However, note that just as with any supplement, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare professional before taking Echinacea to determine whether it’s appropriate for your specific needs and to discuss any potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking.
