Many of us like to turn to natural, herbal remedies even when we have a cold or a cough. Echinacea, which is said to strengthen the immune system and protect against diseases, is a very popular herbal supplement all over the world. You may have heard of it or even used it. But what is it really? Is it a medicine? What are the things we should be careful about when using it? Let's find out more about it today.
What exactly is Echinacea?
Simply put, echinacea is not a medicine, but a dietary supplement . These are usually taken as pills, capsules, liquids, or teas. Although it is believed to help support the immune system, it has not been scientifically proven to cure, prevent, or diagnose any disease.
The most important thing is that nutritional supplements like these are not subject to the same strict quality control as medications prescribed by a doctor. Therefore, we cannot guarantee their ingredients, quality, and safety.
That means there is a question about whether the same amount of ingredients are in the package. So if you are using something like this, it is definitely worth talking to your doctor about it.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this
If you are considering using echinacea, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following health conditions, as using echinacea can be dangerous in these cases.
| Health condition/opportunity | Why should you care? |
|---|---|
| Immune system problems (Autoimmune diseases) | Because echinacea stimulates the immune system, it can worsen diseases that already have an overactive immune system. |
| HIV or AIDS status | It is not suitable because it affects the immune system and can cause problems with medications. |
| Cancer | It can interfere with cancer treatment. |
| Tuberculosis | Risks due to a disease related to the immune system. |
| Diabetes | It may affect blood sugar levels. |
| Liver or kidney disease | These organs, which remove medications and other substances from the body, can become overloaded. |
| Respiratory diseases such as asthma | There is a high risk of allergies. |
| If you have had an organ transplant | May interfere with medications that prevent rejection of transplanted organs. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | In these cases, it is best to avoid using it because there is not enough data about its safety. |
| Other allergies | If you have allergies to other plants, foods, or medications, tell your doctor about that as well. |
How to use this correctly?
Follow the instructions on the package only after talking to your doctor and getting his approval. Take this with a glass of water. If you experience stomach upset, take it with food. Never take more than the dosage stated on the label.
What if you take too much by mistake?
If you think you have taken more than you think, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This is for your own use only, do not share it with others.
Can there be problems with other medications? (Drug Interactions)
Yes, absolutely. If you are taking other medications, echinacea may affect the way they work. This is especially true with the following medications:
- Antiviral drugs taken for HIV or AIDS.
- Medicines for cancer.
- Immunosuppressant drugs (for example, drugs such as `Cyclosporine`, which is given to people who have had organ transplants).
- Some blood pressure medications such as `Nimodipine`.
- Steroid medications such as `Prednisone` or `Cortisone`.
- Medicines that prevent blood clotting, such as `Warfarin`.
This list is not complete. Therefore, give your doctor a complete list of all medications (prescribed and over-the-counter), herbs, vitamins, and nutritional supplements you are taking. Also tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Special points to be aware of when using
- Use only short-term: If your symptoms do not improve within two weeks, or if they get worse, see a doctor. Do not use echinacea for more than two weeks at a time without medical advice. Long-term use has not been proven to have any benefits, and it may be harmful.
- Before surgery: If you are scheduled to have any medical or dental procedure, tell your medical team ahead of time that you are taking echinacea. You may be advised to stop taking it a few days before the procedure.
- "Natural" does not mean "safe": This is something to keep in mind. Just because something comes from a plant doesn't mean it's safe for everyone, all the time.
What side effects are possible?
Like anything, echinacea can cause side effects in some people.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat (these may be signs of a severe allergy). |
| Things to tell your doctor if they are usually not serious, but persist | |
| Stomach discomfort | Nausea, stomach ache. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms that are not on this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
Take-Home Message
- Echinacea is not a medicine, but a nutritional supplement. Therefore, there is no strict regulation regarding its quality and safety.
- Be sure to talk to your doctor before using this, especially if you have other medical conditions or are taking other medications.
- Don't be fooled by the word "natural." Not everything natural is safe for everyone.
- Avoid using echinacea for more than two weeks at a time without medical advice.
- If you experience severe allergy symptoms such as facial swelling and difficulty breathing, go to a hospital immediately.
- Always store these safely, out of reach of children and pets, and check the expiration date.
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