Echinacea Side Effects 

Echinacea Side Effects: An Overview 

Echinacea is an herbal supplement used for  the common cold  and a variety of other different uses (see Benefits of Echinacea  for more information). Many people assume that echinacea is automatically free  of side effects because it is "natural." However, any natural product with medicinal properties is capable  of causing side effects. Although there  are several documented echinacea side effects,  most people usually tolerate it well.
  
Possible Side Effects of  Echinacea

A few clinical studies have reported side effects with echinacea. These possible side effects include: 

• Nausea and vomiting 
• Abdominal pain (stomach pain) 
• Diarrhea or constipation 
• Heartburn  
• Fever  
• Dry mouth 
• Joint pain  or muscle pain 
• Unpleasant taste 
• Sore throat or mouth ulcers 
• Tingling or burning of  the tongue 
• Insomnia  
• Disorientation  
• Dizziness  
• Allergic reaction, which may cause symptoms  such as

1. Runny nose 
2. Itchy  or watery eyes 
3. A rash or hives 
4. Itching
5. Swelling of the mouth  or throat 
6. Wheezing
7. Difficulty breathing. 

Be sure  to seek immediate medical attention if you think you may be having an allergic reaction to echinacea.
Unpredictable  echinacea side effects are also possible due to contaminants in certain products. Because herbs and supplements are  not as tightly regulated as prescription or non-prescription drugs, they are sometimes contaminated with other herbs, medications, or even heavy metals. In order to avoid such problems, it is important to choose  a high-quality supplement  from a trustworthy manufacturer.

Final Thoughts on  Echinacea Side Effects 

You may experience some or none of the  echinacea side effects listed in this article. Unfortunately, there  is no way  for you or your healthcare provider to know beforehand if you will experience side effects  from a product you have never taken before. Therefore, make sure  to let your healthcare provider know if you develop any side effects while taking this supplement or if something "just does not seem right." While it may not be a side effect  of echinacea, your healthcare provider will be able to diagnose and treat the problem. 

Notes: FCbinderMD

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EditText of this page (last edited April 7, 2010)