Is Echinacea Safe?

Echinacea supplements are popular and commonly used for treating various conditions, but is echinacea safe? The herbal supplement may worsen autoimmune diseases by stimulating the immune system, so it is best to avoid taking it if you have a severe or life-threatening autoimmune disease. In addition, people with other allergies might be at a higher risk for an allergy to echinacea.

Safety Issues With Echinacea: An Overview

Echinacea is a popular dietary supplement used for treating the common cold as well as a variety of other conditions. You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking echinacea if you have:
 
  • An autoimmune disorder, such as:
 
 
  • Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
  • Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
  • Breastfeeding.
     
You should also be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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