“The increasing acceptance of herbal medicinal plants for the treatment of a variety of ailments is reflected in the increase in research activity and in the increasing number of scientific publications on phytotherapy,” says Estie Schreiber, marketing director of SA Natural Products and distributor of the A.Vogel ‘Echinaforce’ range in South Africa.
“Recent groundbreaking research by a group of internationally-reputed, independent researchers has shown, for the first time, the efficacy of Echinaforce against influenza viruses including H1N1/’Swine Flu’ in vitro. The research showed that Echinaforce effectively blocked the replication of various influenza strains, like seasonal types as well as the pandemic bird-and swine-flu virus. Even after repeated treatment cycles Echinaforce exhibited persistent activity and no resistance was built up (as seen with other products), opening up a host of prospects for new medical applications for’Echinaforce’.”
“It has long been thought that Echinaforce may have direct antiviral effects,” Schreiber continues, “but there was no conclusive evidence. The results of the latest research findings were unequivocal.” The authors of the study are of the opinion that ‘Echinaforce’ is a useful and clinically relevant addition to standard influenza control measures.
“In view of the challenges posed by the current Swine Flu pandemic, every new prophylactic or therapeutic option makes an important contribution towards disease control from a virological point of view,” Estie emphasises.
“The novel research adds to the previous understanding of a multiple spectrum of activity by Echinaforce best described by the so-called triple mode-of-action. Anti-inflammatory (immune-modulatory), antibacterial and anti-viral effects.”
“This opinion was reinforced by the Virology Journal 2009 (6:197 doi:10.1186/1743-422X-6-197) published in November 2009, which stated that ...’Echinaforce has the potential to inhibit influenza virus propagation (H3N2, H5N1, N7N7 and H1N1) at concentrations recommended for oral use. This potential, the bio-availability and the lack of toxicity make this preparation an interesting option in the control and treatment of influenza virus infection.’”
“The latest findings are a very exciting development in the ever evolving ‘Echinaforce Story’ adds Estie, “and opens new doors for both the prevention and treatment of newly occurring viruses through the use of herbs and plants, in the future.”
Estie Schreiber, marketing director, SA Natural Products, E-mail: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address), Tel: (031) 783-8000, Website: www.sanp.co.za.
References: 1. Virology Journal 2009 (6:197 doi:10.1186/1743-422X-6-197)published in November 2009
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