Reduction of viral load in patients with acute sore throats: Results from an observational clinical trial with Echinacea/Salvia lozenges

Background: Acute tonsillopharyngitis or sore throat is an initial sign of viral respiratory tract infection (RTI) and an optimal indicator for early antiviral and anti-inflammatory intervention. Both of these actions have been attributed to Echinacea purpurea and Salvia officinalis. Methods: 74 patients (age 13-69 years) with acute sore throat symptoms (<48 h) were treated with five Echinacea/Salvia lozenges per day (4'000 mg Echinacea purpurea extract [Echinaforce (R)] and 1'893 mg Salvia officinalis extract [A. Vogel AG, Switzerland] daily) for 4 days. Symptom intensities were recorded in a diary and oropharyngeal swab samples collected for virus detection and quantification via RT-qPCR. Results: The treatment was exceptionally well tolerated, no complicated RTI developed and no antibiotic treatment was required. A single lozenge reduced throat pain by 48% (p<0.001) and tonsillopharyngitis symptoms by 34% (p<0.001). Eighteen patients tested virus positive at inclusion. Viral loads in these patients was reduced by 62% (p<0.03) after intake of a single lozenge and by 96% (p<0.02) after 4-days of treatment compared to pre-treatment. Conclusions: Echinacea/Salvia lozenges represent a valuable and safe option for the early treatment of acute sore throats capable to alleviate symptoms and contribute to reducing viral loads in the throat.