Elecampane

Inula helenium

Elecampane is a native of America, which was used in horse medicine, whence it’s popular name ‘Horse-heal.’ The genus Helenium derives it’s name from several traditions:  one that Helen carried the flower when Paris took her to Troy; another that it sprang from Helen's tears; and a third that it was named for Helenus, a son of Priam.

Early physicians regarded Elecampane as a tonic and an important remedy for coughs and diseases of the chest and it continues to be put to such use today.

It is a gentle expectorant herb, traditionally used in Western Herbal medicine to relieve the symptoms of bronchitis, coughs, colds, catarrh and flu.  It is particularly suitable for soothing the airways in children with irritating coughs.

While Elecampane enjoys a strong historical tradition, this herb has not been subjected to clinical studies looking at its efficacy in treating respiratory conditions.

Cautions and Contraindications.
Caution is advised in known allergy to the Compositae family.
Safety in pregnancy not established.