By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 20, 2024
10 Medicinal Constituents Of Echinacea Angustifolia (Kansas Coneflower)
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, has active constituents such as alkylamides, caffeic acid derivatives, and glycoproteins.
These constituents possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, making them effective in treating infections and autoimmune diseases. The glycoproteins, in particular, have been shown to stimulate the activity of natural killer cells, helping to boost the immune system and fight off pathogens.
This can improve lives by reducing the severity and frequency of illnesses, allowing individuals to maintain a better quality of life.
This article explains in details the 10 best active constituents of Echinacea angustifolia.
1. Caffeic acid
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, caffeic acid is a type of phenolic compound found in its roots and stems.
This antioxidant has been traditionally used for centuries to treat various ailments, including infections, inflammation, and allergies. Caffeic acid exhibits potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to Echinacea's known immunomodulatory effects.
Its bioactive constituents have also been linked to improved wound healing and skin health, making it a valuable component of traditional medicine and natural remedies.
2. Chlorogenic acid
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas Coneflower, chlorogenic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in its roots and flowers.
This bioactive constituent has been extensively studied for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Chlorogenic acid may help protect against oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and exhibit antibacterial activity, making it a valuable component of traditional herbal remedies and modern supplements.
3. Quercetin
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, quercetin is a flavonoid compound found in the plant's flowers and leaves.
Quercetin has been traditionally used to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation, making it a popular ingredient in herbal supplements and remedies. Its potential benefits include relieving allergy symptoms, reducing oxidative stress, and exhibiting antimicrobial properties.
Research suggests that quercetin may also have anti-cancer and anti-viral effects, although more studies are needed to confirm these findings.
4. Kaempferol
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas conefflower, kaempferol is a flavonoid compound found in its flowers and leaves.
This natural phenolic compound has been extensively studied for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties.
Kaempferol has been shown to exhibit strong protective effects against oxidative stress, cell damage, and chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.
5. Isoquercitrin
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas conefflower, isoquercitrin is a flavonoid glycoside that has been isolated from the plant's roots and flowers.
It has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties, making it a potential therapeutic agent for various diseases, including respiratory and immune-related disorders.
Additionally, isoquercitrin has been found to possess antimicrobial activity against certain pathogens, suggesting its potential use as an antimicrobial agent in medicine.
6. Aesculin
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, aesculin is a key constituent found in its roots.
It belongs to a group of compounds called lignans, which are known for their antiviral and antibacterial properties. Aesculin has been traditionally used to treat various health conditions, including respiratory infections, wounds, and skin disorders.
Modern research has also confirmed its potential benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.
7. Alkamides
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, alkamides is a class of compounds found in the plant's leaves and stems.
These alkamides have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties, making them useful for treating various health conditions such as respiratory infections, wounds, and skin irritations.
Additionally, alkamides have been found to exhibit immunomodulatory effects, which can help boost the body's natural defense against diseases.
8. Cichoric acid
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, cichoric acid is a unique compound found in its roots and flowers.
It has been extensively studied for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Cichoric acid has been shown to exhibit immunomodulatory effects, increasing the production of certain immune cells and boosting the body's natural defense against infections.
Its bioavailability is also impressive, with research suggesting it can be absorbed and utilized by the body efficiently.
9. Hydroquinone
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas conefflower, hydroquinone is a type of compound extracted from the plant.
It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Studies have shown that echinacea hydroquinone exhibits strong antioxidant activity, which can help protect against oxidative stress and cell damage.
Additionally, it may also have immunomodulatory effects, making it a potential natural remedy for various health concerns.
10. Gallic acid
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas conefflower, gallic acid is a phenolic compound found in its flowers and leaves.
This antioxidant-rich compound has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties, making it a popular ingredient in herbal supplements and traditional medicine.
Gallic acid in Echinacea angustifolia has also been studied for its potential to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce oxidative stress.