Echinacea Tea Benefits

by Kalah Garcia

Echinacea has been used for centuries in herbal traditions and is now one of the most popular supplements for seasonal wellness. Known for its vibrant purple flowers and powerful plant compounds, this North American native continues to play a key role in supporting health.

What is echinacea used for?

Echinacea is primarily used to support the immune system and may help reduce the duration or severity of colds and flu. Thanks to its antioxidant and soothing properties, many people also use it for overall wellness, respiratory comfort, and seasonal health support.

Key Takeaways

  • Echinacea purpurea's resurgence in health/wellness.
  • Immunity-boosting during flu season.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Combats influenza with scientific validation.

Usage and Herbal Composition

  • Traditional use by North American tribes → Echinacea was historically valued by indigenous tribes for its role in natural medicine.
  • Parts of the plant used → Roots, leaves, and flowers are all incorporated into teas, tinctures, and extracts.
  • Flavor and form → Known for its earthy, floral taste, echinacea is enjoyed as a tea, supplement, or capsule.

Benefits of Echinacea

Beyond its traditional use, echinacea is valued today for several key wellness benefits. Here are the main ways people use it.

Respiratory Relief

Echinacea is best known for supporting the body’s natural defenses, especially during cold and flu season. Many people turn to it at the first signs of illness to help the immune system stay strong and resilient (2)(5)(6).

Anti-Inflammatory 

Compounds in echinacea are studied for their ability to calm inflammation. This makes it a popular choice for soothing discomfort, promoting recovery, and helping the body feel more balanced during seasonal challenges (3).

Viral Defense

Standardized extracts like Echinaforce have been researched for their potential role in supporting the body against common seasonal viruses. While findings are ongoing, many see echinacea as a natural ally for extra defense during flu season (4).

Immune Support

Echinacea is best known for supporting the body’s natural defenses, especially during cold and flu season. Many people turn to it at the first signs of illness to help the immune system stay strong and resilient.

A Word of Caution

Echinacea is generally considered safe for most people, but it may interact with certain medications, especially immunosuppressants. Some individuals also report mild digestive upset. To enjoy its benefits safely, use in moderation and consult a healthcare provider if you have existing conditions. 

Blending tradition with modern research, echinacea remains one of the most trusted herbs for seasonal wellness. Whether sipped as a warming tea or taken as a supplement, it offers both comfort and potential immune support — a natural way to care for your health during cold and flu season.

Sources:

1. Pourghanbari G, Nili H, Moattari A, Mohammadi A, Iraji A. Antiviral activity of the oseltamivir and Melissa officinalis L. essential oil against avian influenza A virus (H9N2). Virusdisease. 2016 Jun;27(2):170-8. doi: 10.1007/s13337-016-0321-0. Epub 2016 May 21. PMID: 27366768; PMCID: PMC4908999.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27366768 

2. Barrett B. Medicinal properties of Echinacea: a critical review. Phytomedicine. 2003 Jan;10(1):66-86. doi: 10.1078/094471103321648692. PMID: 12622467.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12622467

3. Pleschka S, Stein M, Schoop R, Hudson JB. Anti-viral properties and mode of action of standardized Echinacea purpurea extract against highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1, H7N7) and swine-origin H1N1 (S-OIV). Virol J. 2009 Nov 13;6:197. doi: 10.1186/1743-422X-6-197. PMID: 19912623; PMCID: PMC2785784.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2785784

 

4. Joanne Barnes, Linda A Anderson, Simon Gibbons, J David Phillipson, Echinacea species (Echinacea angustifolia (DC.) Hell., Echinacea pallida (Nutt.) Nutt., Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench): a review of their chemistry, pharmacology and clinical properties, Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Volume 57, Issue 8, August 2005, Pages 929–954,

https://doi.org/10.1211/0022357056127

5. Block KI, Mead MN. Immune System Effects of Echinacea, Ginseng, and Astragalus: A Review. Integrative Cancer Therapies. 2003;2(3):247-267. doi:10.1177/1534735403256419

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1534735403256419

6. Nicolussi, S.; Ardjomand-Woelkart, K.; Stange, R.; Gancitano, G.; Klein, P.; Ogal, M. Echinacea as a Potential Force against Coronavirus Infections? A Mini-Review of Randomized Controlled Trials in Adults and Children. Microorganisms 2022, 10, 211.

https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms10020211

 

 

Kalah Garcias Bio Picture Writer: Kalah Garcia is dedicated to fostering whole-body wellness, actively working to enrich the lives of those she encounters. Her approach involves passionately writing articles on health and wellness, aiming to equip others with the knowledge and tools for improved well-being. Kalah's commitment is reflected in her eagerness to share insights and that make a meaningful difference in people's lives.

Authors Link: LinkedIn

Back to Healthy Lifestyle