Echinacea is a sun loving, drought tollerant, perennial of the daisy (Asteraceae) family, that prefers fertile, slightly acidic, well-drained soil and can grow to over 1m tall. Believed to stimulate the immune system with flowers and roots being harvested to treat and prevent colds, flu, and other infections. Also used for wounds and skin problems, such as acne and boils. Herbal tea usually taken on an empty stomach, 3 times per day for periods of 1 to 2 weeks.