I used to take eccinacia (not sure if that's the correct spelling) at the first sign of a cold. It boosts the immune system apparently. I found that it really did lessen the symptoms and shorten the course of a cold. Now that I have been diagnosed with an auto-immune disorder, should I avoid this? I am on methotrexate and steroids (as well as lots of other drugs). Any advice would be gratefully received.

Hi Naomi

As some of the most innocuous sounding herbs (rosehip for instance) can interfere with meds, I would ALWAYS check with your rheummy department to make sure this is OK.

Love Jeanxx

Naomi

Unfortunately I think you will find the answer is "Yes". I always took echinacea and my family still do. I asked my Rheumatologist if I could take it and he quite rightly said "we are trying to reduce you immune system not increase it". I was so disappointed as before I had RA I never had colds and my friends and family swear by it. Now I use "First Defence" which you spray up your nose at the first sign of a cold and I must admit it certainly works for me and stops the cold forming.

Take care and stay cold free

Jackie
xx

Thanks everyone. Your answers confirm what my common sense/intuition was telling me all along.