Echinacea For Children: Is It Safe And Precautions To Take

Use under expert supervision to understand the correct dosage and minimize side effects.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Dur Afshar Agha, MS Dr. Dur Afshar Agha Dr. Dur Afshar AghaMS MomJunction on FacebookFollow MomJunction on Instagram Specialty: Masters of Tropical PediatricsExperience: 26 years
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Edited by , BSc, MBA Rohit Garoo BSc, MBA Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Baby Health and WellnessExperience: 9 years
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A small baby is smelling the flowers

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Echinacea or purple cornflower is often used as a natural remedy for upper respiratory tract infections and other illnesses, such as cold, flu, and fever in children. However, parents must understand its effectiveness and safety before using echinacea for kids to treat illnesses or improve their general health (1).

Echinacea is a group of medicinal flowering plants found in North America (Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, and Echinacea pallida). It has been used to treat various infections and wounds for several centuries (2).

Read this article to learn whether echinacea is safe for children, its benefits and possible side effects, the precautions to take while using it, and the factors determining its dosage.

In This Article

Is Echinacea Safe For Children?

Guided use of echinacea for kids is considered safe

Image: Shutterstock

Guided use of echinacea is considered safe for children aged 12 years and above. However, its use in younger children is also prevalent in alternative medicine. If you want to try echinacea for your child, consult a pediatrician or alternative medicine expert. An aromatherapy and wellness expert can guide you about the safety of echinacea for your child based on their age, medical history, medication details, and overall health (3).

Additionally, they will suggest an age-appropriate dosage based on the intent of use. Echinacea is available in different forms, such as extracts (alcoholic, water, or oil), chewable tablets, tea, pills/capsules, gummies, and fresh/dried powder. Thus, discuss the best option for your child with your doctor (4).

protip_icon Trivia
Archeological evidence suggests that Native Americans have used echinacea as a traditional medicine to treat infections and wounds for more than 400 years (2).

Safe Dosage For Children

The use of echinacea as a dietary supplement or herbal medicine isn’t well-regulated, as dietary supplements and herbal medicines do not undergo the US FDA’s safety regulation checks. Therefore, their safety and efficacy aren’t apparent. Besides, the right dosage of echinacea for children depends on the child’s age, weight, medical condition, type of echinacea product, and mode of use, that is, oral or topical (5).

All these factors make selecting and administering echinacea to children tricky. Hence, you should follow the dosage as recommended on the package. Alternatively, you may consult an expert who could recommend a safe dosage for your child’s condition.

Uses Of Echinacea For Children

The roots and herbs of the echinacea plant contain bioactive compounds, such as alkamidesiPlant compounds with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and diuretic properties , caffeic acidiCompound found in all plant species and found in foods such as coffee, wine, and tea derivatives, polysaccharidesiNatural carbohydrates that provide energy , and glycoproteinsiMolecules made of protein and carbohydrates . These compounds confer antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatoryiA substance that stimulates or suppresses the immune system properties to echinacea (6).

Here’s a brief overview of the uses of Echinacea for children.

  1. Common cold: Herbal preparation of Echinacea is proven to improve the common cold symptoms in adults; however, it is found ineffective in children (7). A 2011 literature review concludes that Echinacea purpurea taken at the first signs of cold might reduce the duration and severity of symptoms (8). In another study, it was found that certain Echinacea products might help relieve colds(9) . But majorly, the clinical trials and research offer mixed results.
  1. Ear infections: Recurrent otitis media (middle ear infection) is one of the many common diseases in children, especially young ones (10). Alternative medicine experts and herbalists recommend using echinacea to treat and manage ear infections (2). However, a 2008 randomized-controlled trial shows that treating otitis media with echinacea products might increase the risk of its recurrence (11).
  1. Skin issues: Research shows that echinacea can help treat acne. Herbal echinacea extract possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help inhibit the bacteria (PropionibacteriumiA commensal bacteria that can occasionally cause infectious diseases ) growth and reverse the inflammation caused by the bacteria (12). Besides, the topical use of Echinacea is also known to treat wounds, ulcers, insect bites, eczema, allergies, and cold sores in children (13).
Herbal echinacea extract can treat can treat skin problems in children

Image: Shutterstock

  1. Immunity: Several parents use echinacea to boost their children’s immunity. A 2007 research study suggests echinacea can affect one’s innate and adaptive immunity. However, how much effect an echinacea product will have on one’s immunity depends on the species of echinacea used for making the product, the plant part used, and the extraction method as highlighted by research and clinical trials (6) (14) (15). Nonetheless, echinacea’s guided use may help in strengthening the immune system.

protip_icon Caution
Like other herbal preparations, echinacea is recommended for short-term use as it may interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications and may trigger some adverse effects (2).

Possible Side Effects Of Echinacea

Generally, echinacea is well tolerated in adults. However, it may cause the following side effects in children (1).

  • Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting
  • Fever and chills
  • Unpleasant taste in the mouth
Echinacea may cause unpleasant taste in kid's mouth

Image: Shutterstock

  • Temporary tingling and numbing of the mouth
  • Insomnia (16)
  • Skin rash and allergic reactions, especially if the child is allergic to daisy family plants, such as marigold and ragweed (4)

Using Echinacea topically may cause red itchy rashes on the child’s skin, most likely due to an allergic reaction.

Precautions To Take When Using Echinacea For Children

Here are some simple precautions that you should observe when using echinacea for your child (3).

  1. Consult a pediatrician or alternative medicine expert before using echinacea for your child regardless of the ailment. Also, share your child’s medical history, such as an allergy, and details of medications they take.
Consult a pediatrician before using Echinacea for kids

Image: Shutterstock

  1. Buy an echinacea product from a reputable and trustworthy manufacturer and seller. Before buying, take some suggestions from your healthcare provider. It will help ensure that the product you buy is contamination-free.
  1. Select a product that has USP written after the product name. It indicates that the product has been manufactured as per the recommendations set forth by the US Pharmacopeia. Also, choose an alcohol-free echinacea product for your child.
  1. Read the product label carefully while purchasing an echinacea product. The label should tell you about the active and inactive ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, or sugar, in the product.
  1. Follow the dosages as directed by the doctor and administer them carefully. Store the echinacea products away from children to prevent accidental ingestion.
  1. Inform the child not to take caffeine or caffeinated beverages, such as energy drinks or cola, with echinacea, as it can increase the caffeine’s side effects, such as rapid heart rate and headache.
Inform the child not to drink energy drinks with echinacea

Image: Shutterstock

Echinacea should never be administered to immunocompromised children, children with an autoimmune disorder, or those who have any liver disorder (2).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does echinacea help patients with COVID-19?

A systematic review study reported that echinacea supplementations may help increase the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokineiSmall protein cells that play a role in controlling the activity of the immune system and blood cells IL-10 and pro-inflammatory cytokine IFN. Since the levels of IFN are usually low in patients with COVID-19, echinacea may be beneficial for them (17).

2. Does echinacea affect the kidneys?

The NHS suggests that the intake of echinacea may interfere with the functioning of the kidneys (18). Therefore, it is advised that you consult your child’s doctor before administering this medication to them.

3. Is echinacea good for anxiety?

According to a study conducted on 104 participants dealing with anxiety issues, the intake of echinacea can be associated with reduced anxiety levels. However, more research must be done on this subject to validate the facts (19).

4. What happens if I take too much echinacea?

The side effects of excessive intake of echinacea include (20):

  • Dizziness
  • Upset stomach
  • Nausea
  • Allergic reactions

Echinacea is a popular herb used in several natural remedies to treat ailments such as cold and flu. Children over 12 years old can take echinacea, but most of its uses are supported by anecdotal evidence. This alternative medication might treat various conditions. However, it also causes side effects in children, including insomnia, bad taste in the mouth, diarrhea, and vomiting. Therefore, consulting a healthcare provider, learning about the ingredients used, and purchasing the product from a credible manufacturer is essential to ensure the safe use of echinacea for kids.

Infographic: Drug Interactions Of Echinacea

Consuming echinacea when on any medicines may increase or decrease its effect. Although the herb has not been found to have any major drug interactions, the infographic below discusses some possible ones.

substance and condition that may interact with echinacea (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Key Pointers

  • If used under expert guidance, echinacea or purple cornflower is considered safe for children aged 12 years and older.
  • The correct dose depends on the child’s age, weight, medical condition, and the type of echinacea product.
  • The herb may be beneficial in common colds, ear infections, and skin issues.
  • It may cause gastrointestinal disturbance, fever, or allergies as side effects. It is best to consult a doctor before giving echinacea to children.

Illustration: Echinacea For Children: Is It Safe And Precautions To Take

Echinacea For Kids_illustration

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team

Explore the powerful immunity boosting benefits of Echinacea in this informative video! Use this information wisely and get ready to feel healthier and stronger!

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. Echinacea.
    https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/echinacea
  2. Echinacea.
    https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/echinacea
  3. Echinacea.
    https://www.mottchildren.org/health-library/d04407a1
  4. Echinacea.
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2003/0101/p77.html
  5. FDA 101: Dietary Supplements.
    https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/fda-101-dietary-supplements
  6. Azadeh Manayi et al. (2015). Echinacea purpurea: Pharmacology phytochemistry and analysis methods. DOI
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4441164/
  7. Treatment of the Common Cold in Children and Adults.
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2012/0715/p153.html
  8. Richard Nahas (2011). Complementary and alternative medicine for prevention and treatment of the common cold. DOI
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3024156/
  9. Echinacea for preventing and treating the common cold.
    https://www.cochrane.org/CD000530/ARI_echinacea-for-preventing-and-treating-the-common-cold
  10. Ear infections and glue ear.
    https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Ear_infections_and_Otitis_media/
  11. Richard A Wahl et al. (2008). Echinacea purpurea and osteopathic manipulative treatment in children with recurrent otitis media: a randomized controlled trial. DOI
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18831749/
  12. M Sharma et al. (2011). The potential use of Echinacea in acne: control of Propionibacterium acnes growth and inflammation. DOI
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20830697/
  13. James B. Hudson. (2012). Applications of the Phytomedicine Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) in Infectious Diseases. DOI
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3205674/
  14. Zili Zhai et al. (2007). Enhancement of innate and adaptive immune functions by multiple Echinacea species. DOI
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17887935/
  15. Michele Catanzaro et al. (2018). Immunomodulators Inspired by Nature: A Review on Curcumin and Echinacea. DOI
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6278270/
  16. Echinacea. DOI:
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501810/
  17. Monique Aucoin et al.; (2021); A systematic review on the effects of Echinacea supplementation on cytokine levels: Is there a role in COVID-19?
    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589936821000396
  18. Pharmacy remedies and kidney disease
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-disease/living-with/
  19. Adrian L Lopresti and Stephen J Smith; (2021); An investigation into the anxiety-relieving and mood-enhancing effects of Echinacea angustifolia (EP107™): A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled study.
    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032721006406
  20. Echinacea: What Should I Know About It?
    https://familydoctor.org/echinacea-what-should-i-know-about-it/
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Dr. Dur Afshar Agha
Dr. Dur Afshar AghaMS
Dr. Dur Afshar Agha is a consultant pediatrician with around 26 years of experience in various medical facilities both in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. She has headed the Department of Preventive Pediatrics at the prestigious, Children’s Hospital and Institute of Child Health in Pakistan and is a life member of the Pakistan Paediatric Association.

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Swati Patwal
Swati PatwalM.Sc. (Food & Nutrition), MBA
Swati Patwal is a clinical nutritionist, a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) and a toddler mom with more than a decade of experience in diverse fields of nutrition. She started her career as a CSR project coordinator for a healthy eating and active lifestyle project catering to school children.

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Rohit Garoo
Rohit GarooBSc, MBA
Rohit Garoo is a writer-turned-editor with over 9 years of experience in content writing, editing, and content marketing. He did his bachelors in Science at St. Xavier's College, Hyderabad, and masters in Business Administration at Osmania University.

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Dr. Joyani Das
Dr. Joyani DasM.Pharm, PhD
Dr. Joyani Das did her post-graduation from Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra and PhD in Pharmacology. Previously, she worked as an associate professor, faculty of Pharmacology, for two years. With her research background in preclinical studies and a zeal for scientific writing, she joined MomJunction as a health writer.

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