Echinacea intake induces an immune response through altered expression of leucocyte hsp70, increased white cell counts and improved erythrocyte antioxidant defences

Objective: To study the effect of Echinacea tablets on the expression of leucocyte heat shock protein 70 (hsp70), erythrocyte haemolysis, plasma antioxidant status, serum chemistry, haematological values and plasma alkylamide concentrations. Method: Eleven healthy individuals (26–61 years of age) were evaluated at baseline (day 1) and on day 15 after consuming two commercially blended Echinacea tablets daily for 14 days. Results: Echinacea supplementation enhanced the fold increase in leucocyte hsp70 expression after a mild heat shock (P = 0·029). White cell counts (WCC) were also increased (P = 0·043). We also observed a preventative effect against free radical induced erythrocyte haemolysis (P = 0·006) indicative of an antioxidant effect. Conclusion: The pilot study suggests that Echinacea may invoke an immune response through altered expression of hsp70 and increased WCC.