If you choose to use any type of alternative therapy in addition to conventional medicine, make sure you let your physician know about it, since some of these herbs may interact with your medications and place you at risk for serious side effects. Studies still differ in their conclusions about its efficacy, but supplementation in people with a weakened immune system has so far been contraindicated until more is known about its effects. More research is needed to confirm these findings. What is known is that the prolonged use of echinacea may actually depress the immune system, maybe by overstimulating it. It is currently being closely studied for the treatment of certain viral infections, including herpes and hiv.
Adverse effects are rare and mild.
Ginseng Ginseng is another herbal remedy that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. Several adverse reactions to ginseng have occurred, but they may have been related to other components, since the compositions of the products vary widely, and labeling is not always accurate. People using insulin, anticoagulants or anti-depressants should avoid ginseng because of possible drug interactions. Garlic Garlic has been used since the Middle Ages as a protection against infection. Other beneficial effects include a lowering of blood cholesterol levels and a decrease in blood pressure.