You've tried everything. Cough drops, decongestants, and some ibuprofen, too. But that sneezing, hacking, and all-around lousy feeling won't go away. Just as you're ready to wave the white flag, you start to wonder: Could an herbal remedy like echinacea save the day?

Echinacea is a flowering plant that grows in the U.S. and Canada, and it's been used as medicine for centuries. There are nine species. Some of its common names are the purple coneflower or black-eyed Susan. The leaves, stems, flower, and roots are used to make supplements, liquid extracts, and teas.

Echinacea plants belong to the daisy family, along with plants like sunflowers, chicory, chamomile, and chrysanthemums.

There are different species, with Echinacea purpurea being popular. Other species include Echinacea pallida, Echinacea laevigata, and Echinacea tennesseensis.

The leaves and roots of the plant have long been used in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation and enhance immune function.

It’s popular as a natural remedy to reduce cold and flu symptoms like stuffiness, sneezing, and sinus pressure. Echinacea deserves a spot in your medicine cabinet.