Echinacea: What Should I Know About It?

Echinacea (say: "eck-in-ay-sha") is an herbal remedy that may help the body defend itself from the viruses that cause colds, sore throats and the flu. Echinacea products can be found in most drug stores or health food stores.

Follow the directions on the package label or talk to your doctor before you buy an herbal product. Don't take echinacea on an empty stomach. It should be taken with food or a large glass of water. Do not take echinacea for more than 2 weeks without talking to your doctor.

Minor side effects can include an upset stomach, nausea and dizziness. Serious side effects can include worsening of asthma symptoms and allergic reactions such as rash, swelling and difficulty breathing. If you have a history of allergy to daisies, ragweed, marigolds, chrysanthemums or related plants, you may be more at risk of having an allergic reaction to echinacea. Talk to your doctor right away about any side effects you are having.

If you are regularly taking other medicines, check with your doctor before taking echinacea. You should also tell your doctor if you drink beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke or if you use illegal drugs. These substances may affect the way echinacea works.

Echinacea may not be helpful if you have any of the following conditions: an autoimmune disorder (such as lupus), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before you start taking echinacea.