Herbs

Echinacea

Also called: purple coneflower

A flowering plant used for colds.

Why people take it
Preventing or shortening colds.
What the evidence says
Possibly a small benefit for preventing colds; results are inconsistent.
How it is usually taken
Usually extracts for up to 10 days at the start of a cold.
Be careful
Allergic reactions, especially in people allergic to ragweed or daisies. Not for people with autoimmune disease.
Medicines it can interact with
May reduce the effect of immune-suppressing medicines; can affect caffeine and some other medicine levels.

Other herbs

ElderberryGarlic extractGingerPeppermint oilMilk thistleSaw palmettoSt John's wortValerianChamomileLemon balmPassionflowerKavaRhodiolaGinkgoMoringaFenugreekCinnamonBlack seedLicoriceBoswellia

Common questions

What is Echinacea?

A flowering plant used for colds.

Why do people take Echinacea?

Preventing or shortening colds.

Does Echinacea work?

Possibly a small benefit for preventing colds; results are inconsistent.

How much Echinacea do people take?

Usually extracts for up to 10 days at the start of a cold.

Is Echinacea safe?

Allergic reactions, especially in people allergic to ragweed or daisies. Not for people with autoimmune disease.

Does Echinacea interact with medicines?

May reduce the effect of immune-suppressing medicines; can affect caffeine and some other medicine levels.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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