Increasing levels of stress in today’s fast-paced world are also leading to a rising incidence of high anxiety among consumers. Terry Lemerond, in a new Terry Talks Nutrition column, discusses how anxiety has serious health effects on the body, adversely impacting cardiovascular function, digestion, weight and immune health. Surprisingly, one of the best-known botanicals for immune support—Echinacea—may help address anxiety.
Lemerond reported it appears only one species of Echinacea angustifolia, grown under controlled conditions and using special extraction procedures, produces the desired plant compounds to reduce anxiety. Further, the therapeutic dosage is quite low and narrow; high doses don’t help on anxiety. The potential was originally discovered by Hungarian researchers, who found certain species of echinacea contained compounds that could influence brain chemistry, with the ability to bind to brain receptors safely and trigger feelings of calm and relaxation.
The echinacea extract was then tested in human volunteers with increasing anxiety and tension, Lemerond stated. Participants experienced a significant reduction in anxiety after a single day, with a 25 percent reduction after one week and no untoward drowsiness or interference with daytime activities. This 2010 study is currently under review for publication. However, another study, published in Phytotherapy Research in 2010, found again this Echinacea extract was as effective as a prescription anti-anxiety drug, but without the drowsiness generally associated with the use of that product. Lemerond added no significant side effects were experienced by study participants. Further, the dosage used in the study was quite low—around 20 mg at a time—and can be used several times a day if necessary to address stress, tension and anxiety.