Know When to Caution Against Taking Echinacea

Cold and flu season will bring up questions about echinacea for respiratory infections...and other uses.

Echinacea is closely related to ragweed and sunflowers. Certain species (E. angustifolia, E. purpurea, E. pallida) are used for their potential antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulatory effects.

Effectiveness. Explain that oral echinacea is possibly effective for preventing the common cold...but doesn’t seem to help treat colds.

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