Get what you pay for

Q: Last time I had a cold, I tried Echinacea, but I didn't notice a difference. Does it really work?

JVW: In my experience, and in the experience of herbalist and regular Nutrition & Healing columnist Kerry Bone, yes. But, then, we both make sure our patients are always using the best product -- one that uses standardized extracts of the active phytochemicals found in the root and leaves of the Echinacea plant.

It's important to choose products from reliable companies with good reputations. The best way to find such companies is to seek the advice of a professional trained in the field (such as an M.D., a naturopath, a pharmacist, or an herbalist) or refer to the Internet to find companies, such as www.ConsumerLab.com, that are undertaking independent testing of herbal supplements.

Finally, if the product you are using doesn't seem to work, don't give up. Instead, try another.

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