ELECAMPANE

(Inula helenium; COMPOSITAE)

Part used:  Rhizome and roots

Therapeutic action:

Expectorant, carminative, diaphoretic, tonic, diuretic, alterative, antiseptic, astringent, gently stimulant, stomachic, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, antiscorbutic, anti asthmatic, vulnerary, anti-venomous, and emetic (large doses.)

Elecampane's properties are beneficial to all pulmonary and catarrhal affections. Its sodium phosphate cleans the liver and digestive organs, the potassium chloride dissolves the fibrinous exudations and mucoid matter, and its calcium chlorine supports, feeds, and tones the heart muscles. It is a stimulant, a relaxant, and a tonic to the mucous membrane (a warming, strengthening, cleansing and toning agent to the gastric, alvine and pulmonary membranes). Because of its powerful healing action and efficient expectoration of pulmonary mucus, some herbalists have considered this agent specifically for consumption and pulmonary disorders. It promptly clears up old chronic diseases of the lungs and chest. This herb is the richest source of insulin (a carbohydrate).

Medicinal uses:

Cough, asthma, bronchitis, all pulmonary complaints, dyspepsia, acute catarrhal affection, tuberculosis, snake bites, dyspnea or shortness of breath, wheezing, cystitis, skin diseases, inflammations (all forms), putrid sores and cankers, rash (skin and face), tooth decay, whooping cough, dropsy, diphtheria, kidney and bladder stones, retention of urine, delayed menstruation, (amenorrhea), phthisis, vesical catarrh, sluggish liver, kidney problems, bowel problems, ulcers, malnutrition, rickets, glandular insufficiency, nervous debility. and muscular weakness.

Preparation:

Decoction, fluid extract, powder and tincture.