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In its Phase I study, Gala analyzed the chromosomes and morphology of 143 different lots of Echinacea seeds. A little over half of the seed lots came from the USDA's National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, and the rest came from 13 commercial seed companies. The researchers have established "definite distinguishing criterion" for E. purpurea and E. augustifolia. They also identified and purified seven isobutylamide and four phenolic compounds in Echinacea, which makes it possible to standardize Echinacen extracts. Researchers also discovered that drying E. augustifolia root at or above 70[degrees[C causes a "significant amount" of loss of the known bioactive compounds. Further tests will study how bioactive compounds fare in hydroalcoholic and vegetable glycerite preparations in various situations so that researchers can determine the best preparation and storage conditions for liquid Echinacea extracts.

In addition to identification of bioactive components and the effect of processing and storage factors on potency, Gain's researchers are also studying cultivation. Echinacea, especially E. augustifolia, is very difficult to grow from seed. During Gain's Phase I study, researchers developed n reliable method for encouraging seed germination during dry storage. The method allows growers to have higher field-coverage and more consistent yields. Further studies at Gain and six other North American farms will search for the best cultivation methods and soil conditions for growing K. purpurea, E. angustifolia, and E. pallida.

Phase 2 will expand to include bioavailability studies in collaboration with Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, Arizona State University, and University ofArizona. Pre-clinical trials to determine efficacy are also planned.

Gaia Herbs. Gaja Herbs - America's #1 Echinacea. The Full Spectrum. September 2002.