Echinacea is widely known for its stimulatory effects on the immune system, specifically against viral and bacterial illnesses. External use of echinacea for eczema, boils, abscesses, burns, stings, insect bites, and cold sores has been shown to be effective. Echinacea is available in capsules, as tea, tincture and dried root. Studies have shown that echinacea should be taken only for a limited time frame, losing its effectiveness if continued for more than two to three weeks. With the onset of a cold or the flu, three-four capsules a day taken for ten to fourteen days is considered adequate.
Standardized extracts are the best.
Standardized liquid extracts are usually taken at a dose of three to four milliliters, three times a day. Extracts that are non-standardized may require higher doses to obtain the same effect. Dosage should be discussed with a trained herbalist or your physician. Individuals with auto-immune diseases or other progressive diseases such as tuberculosis or multiple sclerosis should consult their physician before taking this herb. Do not use echinacea in any form if you are allergic to preparations containing this herb or allergic to any other flowers in the daisy family.