Is it safe to take echinacea daily?
There is no standard dose. Some herbalists say you shouldn’t take echinacea for longer than 8 weeks. This is due to possible side effects. But a study in Cardiff in 2012 seemed to show that it is safe to take for up to 4 months. Echinacea can cause minor side effects. These can include an upset stomach, nausea, and dizziness. Serious side effects include allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, and difficulty breathing. It can also worsen asthma symptoms.It’s generally safe to use echinacea. But talk with your healthcare providers before taking echinacea supplements. They can have higher amounts of the herb, and can also interact with some medications and affect how they work.Echinacea is best known for its beneficial effects on the immune system. Numerous older studies have found that this plant may help your immune system combat infections and viruses, which could help you recover faster from illness ( 5 , 6 , 7 ).The most common side effects of echinacea are digestive tract symptoms, such as abdominal pain, nausea, or stomach pain. It’s possibly safe for children to consume E.
Why avoid echinacea?
Echinacea should be avoided in patients with autoimmune disorders, multiple sclerosis, advanced HIV infection, tuberculosis, and organ transplants because it may stimulate T cells. Allergic reactions are possible in patients with allergies to ragweed, chrysanthemum, marigold, daisies, or related allergens. Research suggests that echinacea can be an effective immunomodulator. Echinacea may increase the number of white blood cells, including macrophages, natural killer cells, and T-cells. They support the production of white blood cells and enhance their function.Positive effect on the immune system Numerous older studies have found that this plant may help your immune system combat infections and viruses, which could help you recover faster from illness ( 5 , 6 , 7 ). That’s one reason why echinacea is often used to prevent or treat the common cold.