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Echinacea Side Effects

Applies to echinacea: oral tablet

Warning

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, echinacea is thought to be possibly safe when taken for a short period of time.

Common side effects may include:

  • nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea;

  • fever, sore throat;

  • muscle or joint pain;

  • unusual or unpleasant taste in the mouth;

  • dry mouth, numb feeling in your tongue;

  • headache, dizziness, confusion; or

  • sleep problems (insomnia).

Echinacea applied to the skin in a topical form can cause an itchy or red skin rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer