Bad Echinacea Side Effects

The search is still on for a cure to the common cold, although echinacea has been touted as effective for preventing colds and upper respiratory infections and improving numerous other conditions. The jury is still out on echinacea, because most clinical trials were too small to be conclusive and results are mixed. One things that's not inconclusive, though, is that echinacea can have some bad side effects.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

• The most common side effects from taking echinacea are dizziness, upset stomach and nausea. When taken by mouth, side effects are unusual, but the gastrointestinal effects were found to be evident in clinical trials.

Allergic Reactions

• Some allergic reactions can result from taking echinacea. These include difficulty breathing, rashes and swelling. These reactions can be potentially life-threatening. Reactions are most common in people who experience problems with related plants such as ragweed, marigold, daisies and chrysanthemums or those people who tend to be allergic to many things.

Asthma Problems

• People who suffer with asthma can have increased reactions when taking echinacea. Asthma sufferers should speak with their health care provider before trying any echinacea products.

Medication and Disease Effects

• Anyone who takes a prescription medication for any health conditions should consult their doctor to see if their medication will lose effectiveness with echinacea. Those taking medications for HIV, AIDS, diabetes type 1, lupus and other autoimmune diseases are particularly vulnerable.

  Although studies confirming echinacea have had varied results, some trials indicate that it may be effective in treating infections of the upper respiratory system.