These are some of the most popular herbal supplements sold. The dosage recommendations are general, because potencies vary among the many different preparation methods and brands. In general, follow label directions, the guidance of a knowledgeable physician, or the instructions in books written by herbal experts. Echinacea turns on some of the body's immune cells. Recent studies have confirmed that echinacea can bolster resistance to colds and flus.
Many people think of garlic as a food or condiment rather than as an herb.
There's probably more science to back it up than on any other herb. It's a natural blood thinner and cholesterol-lowering herb. Garlic is also a powerful immune stimulant that can help you resist disease. Exercise caution when combining large doses of garlic with other blood thinners, such as ginkgo, aspirin, and the drug Coumadin. Cook with garlic for taste, or take capsules for convenience.