Why Is Echinacea Good for You?

Some early research shows that echinacea supplements may have broader health benefits as well. Echinacea may strengthen your body's immune system, helping you fight colds and flus caused by viruses or bacteria. Some research shows that the echinacea plant contains chemicals that help your body create white blood cells.

Is it OK to take echinacea every day?

For general immune system stimulation, during colds, flu, upper respiratory tract infections, or bladder infections, take echinacea 3 times a day until you feel better, but not for more than 10 days. DO NOT take echinacea on an empty stomach.

Does echinacea actually do anything?

Recent research suggests that some echinacea supplements may shorten the duration of a cold by about half a day and may slightly reduce symptom severity. But these results were too minor to be deemed significant. In the past, some studies have found echinacea to be helpful while other studies have found no benefit.