Does Echinacea Work?

Echinacea has been used for centuries to improve the immune system and thus helping the body fight off many diseases. I have personally used it and have found it to be more effective than conventional medicines in treating flu and colds. I have so far only used it for flu and colds but would definitely also use it if I developed any bacterial and viral infection. Unfortunately Echinacea has generated some controversies with some studies questioning its efficacy. Herbal expert Mark Blumenthal helps us sort through the confusion.