Echinacea
Echinacea: what NIH says about colds, which species and parts are used, allergic reactions, and possible medicine interactions.
Content last updated . This page has not been medically reviewed.
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Overview
Echinacea species are perennials related to sunflowers, daisies and ragweed, native to areas east of the Rocky Mountains in the United States. Native Americans used Echinacea purpurea for respiratory infections, tooth pain and snakebite. Products are mainly promoted for the common cold and other respiratory infections, and some for skin problems such as eczema. [1]Names and species
Echinacea purpurea (accepted by GBIF), E. angustifolia and E. pallida are the species NIH names. [1][2] Products use different species and parts, and NIH-sponsored research suggests extract activity is influenced by soil conditions affecting the plant's bacterial community. [1] A result for one product does not apply to another.What the research shows (NIH summary)
| Use | What NIH says | Strength of evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Preventing a cold | Taking echinacea may slightly reduce your chances of catching a cold. More research is needed. [1] | Slight |
| Shortening a cold | Still unclear. [1] | Unclear |
| Respiratory infections in children | One recent study found it might reduce the chance of infection and complications, but overall there is not enough evidence. [1] | Insufficient |
| Eczema and other conditions | Unclear. [1] | Unclear |
Safety
- Likely safe for most adults for short periods (extracts of E. purpurea, and some mixtures with E. angustifolia). Some people have allergic reactions, which may be severe. Common side effects are abdominal pain and nausea. [1]
- Children: possibly safe for short periods, but some children in a trial developed rashes that may have been allergic. Talk to the child's provider first. [1]
- Interactions: there is conflicting evidence about interaction with some drugs processed by the liver, and theoretical reasons to suspect interaction with immunosuppressants or caffeine. [1]
- Pregnancy: some studies suggest possibly safe for up to 7 days in the first trimester; consult your provider. Little is known about breastfeeding. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Does echinacea cure colds?
No. NIH says it may slightly reduce your chances of catching a cold, and it is unclear whether it shortens one. [1]
Can children take echinacea?
Talk to the child's health care provider first. Some children developed rashes in a trial. [1]
References
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Echinacea: Usefulness and Safety. Page last updated November 2024.
- GBIF Secretariat. GBIF Backbone Taxonomy. Names checked 2026-10-22 through the GBIF species match service.
Education, not medical advice. This page is for general information. It does not diagnose or treat any condition and is not a substitute for care from a qualified health professional. Natural does not automatically mean safe. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before changing your care, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition.