Echinacea (echinacea purpurea)

Alternative Names:

Purple coneflower, coneflower, American coneflower

Description:

Echinacea is promoted as a dietary supplement for the common cold and other infections, based on the idea that it might stimulate the immune system more effectively fight infection. Echinacea preparations have been promoted for topical use (application to the skin) for wounds and skin problems.

Precautions:

Although some preliminary research has been done on the use of echinacea during pregnancy, the safety of using echinacea during pregnancy or while breastfeeding remains uncertain. The most common side effects of echinacea are digestive tract symptoms, such as nausea or stomach pain. Some people have allergic reactions to echinacea, which may be severe. Some children who participated in a clinical trial of echinacea developed rashes, which may have been caused by an allergic reaction. 

Ingredients:

Dried organic echinacea 

This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.