The herb Echinacea has a well-deserved reputation for boosting the immune system and preventing colds and flus. Unfortunately many of the Echinacea products available are poor quality and, not surprisingly, those who have relied on them have been disappointed. With cold and flu season fast approaching, it is important to understand the best way to use this powerful herb to protect your health.

There are several different species of Echinacea, but for the purpose of preventing colds and flus, the species Echinacea angustifolia is hands down the best. Unfortunately, most of the products on the market containing Echinacea are made with the species Echinacea purpurea, which is not as effective. Furthermore, most of these products use the leaves and flowers, while the root is the part that contains the most immune-stimulating properties. Some products have both species in a "proprietary blend", but never trust a proprietary blend: the blend may be 1% Echinacea angustifolia (the good stuff) and 99% Echinacea purpurea (the not-as-good).

So what to do if you feel like you're getting sick or everybody around you seems to be getting sick?

Buy an herbal tincture (an alcoholic extract in a little dropper bottle) made from the roots of Echinacea angustifolia. Make sure the label says angustifolia and root. Take 1/2 teaspoon 3 times a day until you feel better or those around you have recovered. A good quality Echinacea tincture should tingle on your tongue. If you are taking Echinacea on a long-term basis, stop taking it every third week to avoid over-stimulating your immune system.