Can herbs be useful in cancer therapy? A review of studies on the influence of Echinacea on cells of the immune system and on tumor amelioration.

In this review, selected species of the genus Echinacea have been discussed in terms of their historical uses, and their modern implications for health benefits. Included herewith is also a summary of the physiologically active components within Echinacea , the medicinal value of these components, the mechanisms of action of these bioactive compounds, and their potential role in cancer therapy and prevention. Includ ed is a synopsis of our pre-clinical work indicating the in vivo results of dietary consumption of Echinacea , in normal and cancerbearing mice. We have demonstrated immune system stimulation, specifically of those immune cells involved in cancer defense. We have shown also, a significant life span extension in Echinacea -consuming mice bearing leukemia. We have also demonstrated that in elderly mice, dietary Echinacea can resurrect the specific, anti-cancer immune cells to levels of that of young adult mice. Even though there has, in recent decades, been an acceptance of the health benefits of herbs in general, and Echinacea specifically, in terms of prophylaxis and therapy, there is still no standardization within o r among the various manufacturers of the derivatives of this plant. Because of the lack of s tandardization or government regulations overseeing the preparation of these products, quali ty variation is dramatic from batch to batch, even within the same manufacturer. In spite of the abundant evidence - both historical and modern - for the medicinal value of 3 major species within genus Echinacea, this wide variability, continues to prevent this plant f rom entering mainstream medicine.