Echinacea

There are nine known species of echinacea, all of which are native to the United States and southern
Canada. The most commonly used, Echinacea purpurea, is believed to be the most potent.
Common Uses:
Echinacea has traditionally been used to treat or prevent colds, flu, and other infections.
Echinacea is believed to stimulate the immune system to help fight infections.
Less commonly, echinacea has been used for wounds and skin problems, such as acne or boils.
Scientific Observations:
Study results are mixed on whether echinacea effectively treats colds or flu. For example, two
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM)-funded studies did not
find a benefit from echinacea, either as Echinacea purpurea fresh-pressed juice for treating colds
in children, or as an unrefined mixture of Echinacea angustifolia root and Echinacea purpurea
root and herb in adults. However, other studies have shown that echinacea may be beneficial in
treating upper respiratory infections.
Most studies to date indicate that echinacea does not appear to prevent colds or other infections.
NCCAM is continuing to support the study of echinacea for the treatment of upper respiratory
infections. NCCAM is also studying echinacea for its potential effects on the immune system.