Echinacea purpurea, also known as eastern purple coneflower, hedgehog coneflower, or echinacea, is a species of flowering plant in the sunflower family. The plant is native to eastern North America where it can found in the wild. Echinacea is a key medicinal herb and has a tonic action on the body’s immune system. The herb has potent ability to counter infection and overall stimulate the immune system.