Echinacea is one of the most popular herbs in the world and its popularity is based on the vast amount of research that has been carried out over the years. It is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants in the daisy family- Asteraceae. Echinacea has a complex mix of active substances, and of most interest compounds called phenols. Many plants contain phenols, active substances that control the activity of a range of enzymes and cell receptors and protect the plant from infections and ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage. Phenols have antioxidant properties, which may be good for human health.