Compound Monograph
Echinacein
Echinacein is an alkylamide (alkamide) from purple coneflower (Echinacea) associated with the tingling sensation of the herb.
Where Does It Come From? (2)
Echinacein is a naturally occurring alkylamide (alkamide), found in Purple coneflower and Other Echinacea species. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Echinacein is an unsaturated isobutylamide (alkamide) from Echinacea species, the purple coneflowers used in traditional and over-the-counter herbal preparations. Alkamides of this kind are responsible for the characteristic tingling, numbing sensation of Echinacea root and are among the constituents studied in connection with the plant’s immune-related and other effects, though evidence for the isolated compound is limited.
Toxicity & Safety
As a constituent of a widely consumed herbal supplement, echinacein is generally regarded as low risk; its isolated safety profile has not been well characterised.