Antiradiation Benefits of Echinacea

Exposure to radiation can cause damage to cell DNA. Research suggests that Echinacea purpurea could help protect cells from radiation and diseases linked to that DNA damage.⁽¹²⁵⁾

How It Works

Echinacea has known antioxidant and immune boosting properties. These are thought to protect against radioactive damage.^(46, 125)

Evidence of Benefit

Animal and clinical studies showed the following:

In one animal study, mice were given 360 mg/kg of E. purpurea every other day for several weeks. Echinacea was given both before and after exposure to high-dose radiation. Tests showed echinacea increased immune system activity and reduced oxidative stress caused by the radiation.⁽⁴⁶⁾

E. purpurea supplements were given to workers who showed signs of DNA damage from radiation exposure. Echinacea appeared to significantly reduce cell abnormalities.⁽¹²⁵⁾