Palestinian Medical and Pharmaceutical Journal (Pal. Med. Pharm. J.)

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Keywords

• Echinacea purpurea
• biological activity
• immune system health
• Echinacea

Abstract

Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench is a well-known medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine due to its immunomodulatory potential. This review provides an integrated and updated assessment of its phytochemical composition and pharmacological activities, with a particular focus on its application in modern medicine. Bioactive constituents such as polysaccharides, alkamides, flavonoids, and phenolic acid derivatives have been shown to enhance immune function and exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. Notably, this paper discusses the underlying mechanisms of action—including immune cell activation, modulation of inflammatory pathways, and reduction of oxidative stress—by incorporating recent clinical data not fully addressed in earlier reviews. Although E. purpurea is supported by scientific evidence as a natural immune enhancer, long-term use and high doses may cause overstimulation, allergic reactions, or drug interactions. Therefore, further clinical studies are essential to fully explore its therapeutic potential and safety profile.

معلومات المقال

قيد النشر

الكلمات الإفتتاحية

• Echinacea purpurea
• biological activity
• immune system health
• Echinacea

الملخص

Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench is a well-known medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine due to its immunomodulatory potential. This review provides an integrated and updated assessment of its phytochemical composition and pharmacological activities, with a particular focus on its application in modern medicine. Bioactive constituents such as polysaccharides, alkamides, flavonoids, and phenolic acid derivatives have been shown to enhance immune function and exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. Notably, this paper discusses the underlying mechanisms of action—including immune cell activation, modulation of inflammatory pathways, and reduction of oxidative stress—by incorporating recent clinical data not fully addressed in earlier reviews. Although E. purpurea is supported by scientific evidence as a natural immune enhancer, long-term use and high doses may cause overstimulation, allergic reactions, or drug interactions. Therefore, further clinical studies are essential to fully explore its therapeutic potential and safety profile.