Elecampane, bearing the scientific name Inulahelenium, is a species from the Asteraceae family. ...
Elecampane, bearing the scientific name Inulahelenium, is a species from the Asteraceae family. The plant grows up to 3 to 6 feet. It can easily be distinguished with its large, bright yellow, daisy-like flowers and leaves that are green and hairy from the top and appear whitish on the bottom due to being covered with wool.
The plant is also known with the common names of elfdock, horseheal, and yellow starwort. The root of Elecampane has long been used in traditional medicinal systems for a range of health issues.
Parts Used: Root
Certified Organic
Country of Origin: China
Benefits and Uses
- Respiratory issues
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Coughs
- Removing mucus from the respiratory tract
- Inflammatory issues, particularly those of the respiratory tract
- Persistent infections
Elecampane is the source of:
- Polysaccharide inulin
- Helenin
- Mucilage
- Alantolactone
- Sterols
- Essential oil, which contains azulenes
- Isoalantolactone
- Diplophylin
Traditional Uses
The plant was highly valued in England for its ability to stimulate secretory organs. It was used to remove mucus from the airways. It was also used for water retention and as a tonic for mucus tissues of the respiratory, GI, and urinary tract.
Nicholas Culpeper, an English physician, botanist, and herbalist, also used it to resist poison. It was also used as a condiment.
Modern Uses
Elecampane is used to support the immune system, soothe the respiratory system and alleviate a range of respiratory and GI tract issues. It is also considered useful for indigestion, heartburn, and inflammation.
Fun Facts
Elecampane’s scientific name Helenium is derived from Helen of Troy, also called Helen or Helena. It is called so because the plant is believed to have grown on a place where her tears fell, when she was abducted from Sparta by the Trojan prince Paris.
For those who do not know Helen of Troy is a figure from Greek mythology, believed to be the daughter of Leda and Zeus. She was said to be the most beautiful woman in the world.
In some cultures, Elecampane plant was also associated with fairies and elves. It was also once called elfwort.
* This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate, or prevent any disease. Results may vary based on individual user and are not guaranteed.
