Echinacea Side Effects

Echinacea is a herb that is known to have immense medicinal properties. It is also known by the name of cone flower or Black Sampson. It is a purple colored tall flower which belongs to daisy family. Echinacea is used to treat a plethora of diseases, however, its main use is mostly as an immune system stimulant. It is therefore widely popular as a herbal medicine for common cold and flu. Its side effects are very rare when consumed orally. However, since these days allergies are increasing at an alarming rate, it is often recommended to use echinacea with caution, due to the potential side effects of echinacea.

Medicinal Properties of Echinacea
Echinacea is most often used to cure common cold and flu. Echinacea is taken as soon as the symptoms surface. It is somehow related to the stimulation of the immune system. Echinacea activates the white blood cells, which help in fighting disease. It also releases chemicals which reduce the inflammation of the glands. Moreover, it is known to successfully cure yeast infections (candidiasis). However, there lacks a medical evidence to support the medicinal properties of echinacea. Therefore, echinacea is not to be consumed without consulting your doctor. Similarly, the dosage of the product should be taken as per the instructions mentioned on the label, as the concentration varies depending upon the manufacturer.

Echinacea Risk Group
Although, echinacea can be consumed safely without any side effects in most people, certain other people are more prone to the dangers of echinacea. The chances of side effects are more in these people. The risk group for echinacea includes:

• People who have known allergies to ragweed, marigolds or similar plants.
• People with autoimmune disorders.
• People suffering from HIV.
• People on immune-system suppressing drugs.
• People with white blood cell or collagen disorders.
• People suffering from tuberculosis.
• People who are on steroids, pregnant women, nursing mothers should consult their doctor before taking Echinacea. Similarly, if you are planning to conceive anytime soon, then it is better to steer clear of echinacea.

Echinacea Side Effects
Side effects are mostly due to the fact that since it is an immune stimulant, it sometimes triggers the progression of the disease and can actually make it worse. Similarly, it can induce allergic responses, which can take sever forms at times. The various side effects of echinacea are as follows:

General

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Fever
• Dry mouth
• Heartburn
• Joint pain or muscle pain
• Unpleasant taste in mouth
• Sore throat and mouth ulcers
• Stinging or burning of the tongue
• Insomnia
• Sensation of disorientation
• Dizziness

Allergic

• Runny nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Skin rash or hives
• Swelling of the mouth or throat
• Wheezing
• Itching
• Difficulty breathing
• Anaphylaxis

Precautions While Taking Echinacea
Follow the precautions given below to avail maximum benefits of echinacea and prevent any possible side effects.

• Echinacea should be immediately taken after the first sign of cold or flu.
• It should be often complemented with other immune boosters for better results.
• The dosage should be taken as per instructions only.
• Standardized extracts, solid formulations, tincture, etc. provide a more reliable dose of echinacea.
• Echinacea should not be continued for more than two weeks without the knowledge of your physician.
• It is not advisable to use this herb for prolonged time. It should be discontinued within 8 weeks.
• Always buy fresh echinacea products from a reliable source only.

Side effects are mainly due to ignorance or excessive use. Thus, if you limit the usage of echinacea and take it only by consulting your doctor, you are less likely to experience any undesirable.