Echinacea comes from a flowering plant in the United States as well as Canada called the cornflower. The flower’s stems, leaves, and roots are typically turned into an herbal supplement to aid the immune system. There are other forms of Echinacea including teas and liquid extracts. The most common form is through herbal teas and capsules. German botanist, Conrad Moench was the first to name the flower, yet Native Americans were the ones who discovered it as a remedy for colds and influenza. Early settlers made use of the cornflower root for their own sickness in addition to healing their livestock. From 1830 to 1930, a group of doctors continuously promoted this flower to the forefront of herbal medicine as well. Between the Native Americans, settlers, and the early generation of doctors, Echinacea has been discovered and rediscovered throughout the years. Claims have been made that this supplement is used to boost the immune system by warding off colds and flues due to its antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties (cloverleaffarmherbs). Echinacea is an herbal supplement that can be purchased over the counter at any local drugstore, grocery store, or health shops.…show more content… When taken upon the onset of a cold or flu, Echinacea increases the production of white blood cells. Since white blood cells are most important in order to fight infections, this is in fact how this flower aids the body’s health. Those who promote this supplement are convinced that it encourages the immune system and reduces common flu and cold like symptoms, as well as other infections and conditions. Echinacea also contains antioxidant properties, which also aids the immune system. However, studies have been performed and have showed mixed results. To this day, Echinacea has yet been proven to be the magical supplement to completely ward of infection (Medical News