[LegendHasIt]

E. purpurea is what I use.

Haven't had a serious cold in the 10 or so years since I started using it at the first symptoms.... And I used to get several HORRIBLE colds every year.

I swear by it.

Use the powdered natural root in capsules, not the processed pills. The processed tablets are no where near as effective.

[P-40]

Haven't had a serious cold in the 10 or so years

Same here...but I don't know why. I just never get them anymore.

[Coleus]

I've been taking vitamins since I was a teen and now I swear by using waterless hand sanitizers to prevent colds. I have one in my car, one in my pocket and one at home. So far, I've been cold free.

Now what's the story about taking echinacea all the time. I've read in some places that you should take it for 10 days then stop for a few, then start the cycle again.