What adverse reaction might occur with Echinacea use?

Severe allergic reactions are a known potential adverse effect of Echinacea use, particularly in individuals who may have allergies to plants in the same family, such as ragweed. Echinacea is an herbal supplement commonly used to help boost the immune system. However, because it can stimulate immune function, it can also trigger allergic responses in susceptible individuals, leading to symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis in rare cases.

The other options, while they might have been considered as potential reactions, are less directly associated with Echinacea. Increased appetite is not a common side effect of this herb. Skin rashes, while possible, are typically linked to the allergic reactions rather than being a standalone effect of Echinacea. Coughing fits are not a recognized adverse reaction related to Echinacea usage. Therefore, severe allergic reactions remain the primary concern to be vigilant about when administering or recommending Echinacea.