In phytotherapy, roots rich in active ingredients such as polysaccharides, echinacoside (immunostimulant action), echinacein (with anti-inflammatory properties) and essential oil are used.

The main therapeutic properties of echinacea, which justify its use in prophylaxis and in the treatment of seasonal diseases, can be traced back to a stimulating action of the immune defences, through an increase in the number and activity of white blood cells, elements present in the blood that incorporate and destroy pathogenic micro-organisms.

For an effective immunostimulating effect, it is recommended to take extracts of Echinacea titrated at least 0.6% in echinacoside (according to the French Pharmacopoeia) in cycles of 15 consecutive days followed by as many days of suspension.

Two or three cycles from autumn onwards, i. e. on the arrival of the first cold weather, are a good method of prevention, bearing in mind that the daily intake of about 16-20 milligrams per day of echinacoside should be divided into two doses, preferably away from meals. The use of Echinacea is not recommended for people with allergies.