|
Herbal
Investigation
 |
 |
| To
test remedies, researchers must first insert the virus
right into a subject's nose |
|
Although Turner's own Echinacea studies "showed no significant
effect" in treating or preventing the common cold, other researchers
have shown that the plant does stimulate the body's immune
system. Which research is correct? They might both be. There
are three different species of Echinacea used medicinally.
Effectiveness may vary depending on the type of plant, where
it is grown, and how it is harvested. Without standardizing
Echinacea products, there is no way to know what brand contains
what.
|
|
"The burden of proof should be on the manufacturers,
but it's not," says Turner. "The industry is
held to an entirely different standard."
|
|
Bill
Soller believes that over time, stricter standards will be
incorporated, and welcomed, across the industry. "In the end,"
he says, "it's in each company's best interest to have a process
that works."
Yet,
even with a more consistent product, consumers may be taking
this treatment in vain. As helpful as a boost to the immune
system may seem, there is insufficient proof that this boost
actually helps treat colds, says Turner. What's more, not
everyone benefits from giving his or her immune system a swift
jolt. People with illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus,
and diabetes might not react well to such supplements.
 |
|
| The
purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) was valued
by Plains Indians for its medicinal effects |
|
Some
manufacturers are beginning to take steps to alert the public
to potential problems. Members of the CHPA recently adopted
a voluntary labeling program to urge pregnant or nursing women
to "consult a health professional" before taking certain supplements.
Manufacturers of St. John's Wort, which has been shown to
react poorly with certain prescription drugs, have been asked
to carry a similar directive. Such labels are not yet required
by law, however, and CHPA has asked the FDA to adopt these
measures by spring 2001. While Soller admits that the entire
industry will benefit from greater regulation, he stresses
that the benefits the public reaps from DSHEA still far outweigh
any negatives.
"In
everything we do in life there are so many variables. We can't
predict anything with absolute certainty," says Soller. "What
we can do is continue to move the needle in a positive direction."
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Photo:
Craig Mailloux, Elk Mountain Nursery
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