Last update Oct. 25, 2022
Likely Compatibility
We do not have alternatives for Echinacea.
Suggestions made at e-lactancia are done by APILAM team of health professionals, and are based on updated scientific publications. It is not intended to replace the relationship you have with your doctor but to compound it. The pharmaceutical industry contraindicates breastfeeding, mistakenly and without scientific reasons, in most of the drug data sheets.
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Echinacea is also known as
Echinacea in other languages or writings:
Main tradenames from several countries containing Echinacea in its composition:
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e-lactancia is a resource recommended by IHAN of Spain
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The roots and aerial summits are used. It contains alkamides (alkylamides), polysaccharides, essential oil and flavonoids, among others (Fitoterapia.net, WHO 1999). Unproven effects: immune stimulant, wound healing, anti-inflammatory. Indicated for oral use in colds and bronchitis (Shah 2007) and for topical use in wounds and skin lesions. Indications according to Commission E of German Ministry of Health: common cold, bronchitis, skin lesions. (Blumenthal 1998)
Some components of echinacea have been detected in breast milk, without having analyzed the possible effects on the infant. (Amer 2015, Mattias 2008)
Side effects are rare and not serious: gastrointestinal, skin rashes and allergic reactions. (Huntley 2005)
It has been used, together with other plants, in topical application to prevent or treat nipple cracks, without conclusive evidence of its effectiveness. (Niazi 2018, As'adi 2018)
Plant that is widely used even during pregnancy and breastfeeding (Kennedy 2013, Sachs 2013, Zaffani 2006, Nordeng 2004, Tesch 2003, , Einarson 2000, Gallo 2000). Although there is little evidence of its safety (Sachs 2013, The Royal 2013, Amir 2011, Huntley 2005), because a lack of toxicity with an appropriate dose and moderate consumption it should be compatible with breastfeeding. (Perri 2006). Do not use more than 8 weeks. (Blumental 1998)
Precautions when taking plant preparations (Anderson 2017, Powers 2015, Posadzki 2013, Efferth 2011, Kopec 1999, Hsu 1995):