Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) – is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, which was introduced to Europe in the 17th century. Native Americans have been using this plant for immunity support since ancient times, so it is not surprising that modern research has found that echinacea helps to maintain normal immune functions and upper respiratory health.
- The roots of this plant have been proven to be a good source of alkylamides, caffeic acid derivatives, flavonoids, polysaccharides, essential oils, minerals and other compounds.
- The polysaccharides and flavonoids in echinacea, which have been subject to extensive research, have the greatest impact on the immune system.
- The phenylcarboxylic acids in echinacea roots (caffeic acid, chicoric acid and their glycosides) also help to support the immune system.