What was that again? The word you are spelling is echinacea.

Sounds like a tough one. That's why we use it.

Am I allowed a definition? Certainly: referring to any of several North American coneflowers of the genus echinacea, or to the roots or seeds of such a plant.

What about the derivation? From the Latin echinus (sea urchin), due to its rough, spiny leaves.

What does it do? It tastes very bad.

No, I mean what is it used for? Ah. Echinacea is a popular herbal remedy used to prevent colds and alleviate their symptoms.

And how does it work? It doesn't.

What do you mean it doesn't? I mean it doesn't actually do anything. A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that in trials echinacea performed no better than a placebo in stopping colds or lessening symptoms.

Then why do they sell it? Many people still believe it's tremendously effective. It isn't, though.

Who started this scam? Native Americans first introduced echinacea as a treatment for wounds.

So the Indians lied? Native Americans, please. The Native Americans lied.

Is it good for anything at all? It makes for a nice tiebreaker in spelling competitions. Echinacea, when you're ready.

Why have a word for something that doesn't do anything? It's crazy! Spell the word, please.

Why should anyone have to know how to spell the name of something that has no earthly use? If you keep stalling, you will be disqualified.

Echinacea. E-C-K-E-N-A-S-U-R-E. Echinacea. Wrong. And might I add, not even close.

I wish you had given me placebo. I know that one. Better luck next time.