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New Study: Echinacea as Effective as Tamiflu

Published July 22, 2015

Commonly called upon during the cold and flu season, echinacea has been used for years to shorten the duration of the common cold and potentially reduce the likelihood of developing the flu. While it's not a cure and conflicting evidence exists that determine its true health value, recent research is showing that a simple echinacea preparation could be helpful for reducing symptoms of the cold and flu, much in the same way as Tamiflu. Could this be the answer to reducing our reliance on over-the-counter medications?

New Research Shows Echinacea as Effective as Tamiflu

A new study published in the April 2015 edition of Current Therapeutic Research reveals interesting findings on an herbal proprietary blend of concentrated echinacea root extract and its effects on cold and flu duration. ^[1] Researchers compared the herbal extract to Tamiflu, a common over-the-counter medication used to combat the symptoms of the influenza virus. Close to 500 people exhibiting flu-like symptoms were involved in the study, each randomly receiving either the echinacea extract or oseltamivir (Tamiflu). Statistical analysis following administration of the two therapies showed no significant differences among groups, and that the herbal extract was equal in effectiveness to Tamiflu in reducing symptoms.

Tamiflu is a much easier product for conventional doctors to recommend, and it's much easier for almost everyone to get a hold of. The main issue with Tamiflu, and most other store-bought medications, is that it has a higher risk factor compared with herbal approaches. Herbs are not without risk, but the risk-to-benefit ratio is considerably lower, for most healthy individuals, when you're dealing with natural plant material in its pure form. That being said, herbal approaches have been shown consistently to be equal in effect to many conventional influenza and cold medications. ^[2] ^[3] Side effects of Tamiflu include nausea, dizziness, insomnia, eye redness, and vomiting. It's clear that taking anything–natural or otherwise–should be monitored by a trusted physician.

Natural Cold and Flu Approaches

One of the best ways to reduce the likelihood of developing a cold or the flu is to step outside in the sun. Ultraviolet light is a potent antiviral, and it's also helpful for producing immune-bolstering vitamin D. ^[4] Studies also indicate that getting enough quality sleep is an important factor for reducing cold and flu incidence, as is stress reduction. ^[5] ^[6] Increasing your intake of antioxidant-rich foods, like vegetables and small berries, also support immune health. Exercise is also a potent supporter for immune health that is often overlooked, so be sure you're getting plenty of physical activity throughout the day, no matter the season.

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM