The medicinal chemistry of Echinacea species

Abstract

Extensive scientific research on Echinacea species revealed that the bioactive components most likely responsible for the immunostimulatory activities of Echinacea were alkamides, caffeic acid derivatives, glycoproteins, and polysaccharides. Three species, namely Echinacea purpurea, E. angustifolia and E. pallida, are predominantly used in herbal supplement preparations. Also, different plant parts are shown to have different amounts of the bioactive components. In addition, the phytochemistry, quality control based analysis of bioactive constituents, as well as addressing the safety concerns related to Echinacea herbal supplement preparations are discussed.