Antitumor and Antioxidant Effects of Cannabimimetics from E. purpurea: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Ayanna Davis

Co-Presenters: Asia Vasileva, Jessica Lashley

College: Hennings College of Science Mathematics and Technology

Major: BS.BIO/CELL/MOLEC

Faculty Research Mentor: Zeine, Rana  

Abstract:

500 words) See Abstract Writing Guidelines Here See the 17 goals here This preliminary report examines cross-species immunomodulatory, antitumor, antioxidant, andneuroprotective properties of Echinacea purpurea by synthesizing results from recentmammalian, aquatic, and cellular studies. Evidence from 2023–2025 literature demonstrates thatE. purpurea derivatives—including polysaccharides, aqueous extracts, alcoholic extracts, andethanolic extracts—modulate immune pathways, inhibit tumor progression, and protect againstoxidative and neurochemical damage in diverse biological systems. Antitumor findings fromcolorectal cancer and glioma models, paired with immunological and antioxidant results fromrodents, livestock, and fish, suggest a broad physiological potential for E. purpurea acrossspecies. This report serves as a foundation for a full systematic review evaluating howcannabimimetic and bioactive compounds from E. purpurea influence neurobiology, toxicology,immunology, and animal health.