Benefits of Echinacea

What are the health benefits of echinacea? What are echinacea side effects?

Echinacea which belongs to the family of the purple coneflowers has been demonstrated to prevent a lot of illnesses and complications. It is best known for strengthening your immune system. Echinacea helps in fighting colds, flu, and other respiratory conditions. It may even help soothe enlarged lymph glands and sore throats.

Echinacea has also been found to treat infections such as urinary tract infections. It may help in combating herpes and Candida. Most people will use Echinacea to help heal wounds, cuts, and skin infections. Oral versions may also help heal other skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Echinacea is not recommended for those with diseases of the immune system such as HIV, multiple sclerosis, or tuberculosis. It might actually worsen these problems. The German government has warned everyone who has those conditions not to take Echinacea.

Just like with everything else, it has side effects. When taken orally, Echinacea won't cause as many side effects. But it's best to be aware. Some people may have allergic reactions such as a rash, asthma, and anaphylaxis. Gastrointestinal side effects were found to be more common in clinical trials.

If you're allergic to ragweed, marigolds, daisies, or other similar flowers, you are more than likely to encounter these side effects. Also, people with asthma are just as likely to have side effects.

If you have none of these side effects, then you can take Echinacea without any concern. But beware because you should only take it in 1 to 2 weeks span. You're not supposed to take it daily for the rest of your life. Plus, you should only take Echinacea if you're fighting the above immune conditions. This is not a vitamin or supplement.

Other than that, the benefits of echinacea outweigh the risks. If you feel that you have any of the above conditions, then you should discuss taking Echinacea with your doctor.

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