When taken at the onset of symptoms, echinacea contributes to reducing the severity and duration of the symptoms of colds and flus. It is just a question of having some in hand when a cold strikes.

It is particularly used for respiratory infections accompanied by sore throat, cough, nasal congestion or runny nose, but the herbal tradition also uses it to keep the immune system in the alert mode.

Note
Echinacea is viewed as an immunostimulant, which makes it great as a preventive measure when the body is under stress or under extreme conditions, which may weaken the immune system.

Precautions & Adverse Effects

Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you are allergic to plants of the Daisy (Asteraceae/Compositae) family.
Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are taking immunosuppressants, if you have a progressive systemic disease such as tuberculosis, leukosis, collagenosis or multiple sclerosis.
Consult a health care practitioner if symptoms persist or worsen.
Hypersensitivity (allergy) has been known to occur; in which case, discontinue use.