Does Echinacea affect other types of white blood cells?
Yes, particularly interesting is its action on another type of white blood cell known as natural killer cells.6,7 Natural killer (NK) cells got their name because they can destroy cells that have become cancerous or infected with viruses. Typically NK cell levels or activity will be reduced in individuals suffering from either chronic viral illness (such as chronic hepatitis or chronic fatigue syndrome) or cancer. Also, a decline in NK cell number or activity is also a common feature of aging. A recent study revealed that Echinacea had the capacity to increase NK cell numbers, in aging mice, reflecting increased new NK cell production in the bone marrow, leading to an increase in the absolute numbers of NK cells in the spleen, their primary destiny.6 These results indicate that Echinacea may be proven to help boost NK cells in aging humans as well. In addition, other studies have shown enhanced NK activity and function.
Yes, particularly interesting is its action on another type of white blood cell known as natural killer cells.6,7 Natural killer (NK) cells got their name because they can destroy cells that have become cancerous or infected with viruses. Typically NK cell levels or activity will be reduced in individuals suffering from either chronic viral illness (such as chronic hepatitis or chronic fatigue syndrome) or cancer. Also, a decline in NK cell number or activity is also a common feature of aging. A recent study revealed that Echinacea had the capacity to increase NK cell numbers, in aging mice, reflecting increased new NK cell production in the bone marrow, leading to an increase in the absolute numbers of NK cells in the spleen, their primary destiny.6 These results indicate that Echinacea may be proven to help boost NK cells in aging humans as well.
