Echinacea is a herb that helps to stimulate the immune system and has traditionally been used to prevent and treat colds and upper respiratory tract infections affecting the nose and throat.

Echinacea is a traditional Native American Indian remedy derived from the Purple Coneflower plant. A member of the aster/daisy family, Echinacea purpurea is a popular garden plant and is now grown widely across Europe. The roots contain unique substances known collectively as echinacins.6

Action and uses of Echinacea
Echinacea helps to stimulate the immune system. It also has antibacterial and antiviral properties and has been traditionally used to treat colds and upper respiratory tract infections affecting the nose and throat.
Research indicates that Echinacea can reduce susceptibility to colds and reduce the length and severity of cold symptoms.1–5 Ideally Echinacea can be taken at a relatively low dose on an ongoing basis to boost the immune system or at a higher dose at the first signs of a cold developing.

How much do you take?
A range of preparations is available including tablets, capsules and tinctures. Echinacea is sometimes combined with other herbs such as liquorice, eucalyptus, and peppermint and presented as a chewable tablet that can be soothing for throat and other respiratory tract infections. 		 

Adults can take up to 4500mg daily of dried root herb equivalent and this amount is often split into doses throughout the day. Echinacea can also be taken at a relatively low dose on an ongoing basis to boost the immune system or at a higher dose at the first signs of a cold developing.6

Side effects/safety
Do not take during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Not suitable for children under 6. Children aged 6-10 years up to 300mg dried herb equivalent three times a day. Children aged 10-15 years up to 600mg three times a day.
Echinacea is generally well-tolerated and any side effects
are rare. However, if for any reason you feel that you have experienced side effects, please consult your pharmacist or doctor. It is safe to take Echinacea with other supplements and and there is no evidence that it interacts with prescribed medications at the recommended dosage. As with any herbal supplement, if you believe you have a condition requiring medical treatment, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking Echinacea.