Hematological Effects of Echinacea purpurea in rat and mouse

Echinacea extracts are widely used in western countries as "immune-stimulating" agents. Even though the evidence to stimulate certain components of the nonspecific immune system (phagocytosis, macrophages, and production of cytokines) stems from in vitro experiments or studies after parenteral application, the commercially available Echinacea preparations used as drugs or supplements are for oral use. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of oral application of this herb on the blood picture in rat and mouse. For this purpose, 60 Rats and 60 mice were used. The animals of each species were divided randomly into three groups. Group 1 and 2 of each species were given 1% and 5% dried powdered Echinacea purpurea for 15 days, respectively. Groups 3 of rats and mice were used as controls groups. All animals were sacrificed on day 16 and blood samples were collected in test tubes. All samples were analysed and the results were assessed statistically using ANOVA. The results showed significant increases in the number of neutrophils and monocytes between test groups compared to control groups (P