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Writer's pictureHeather Herdman

Have you heard of Elecampane

Elecampane was favored by the Celts and honored by the Romans, making this removed relative of sunflower one of the world’s dearest herbal remedies.

What Is Elecampane?

Elecampane (Inula helenium) is a big, woody plant that is a member of the sunflower species. It is generally referred to as horse heal or elfdock and is native to Asia and Europe. Historically used as a digestive tonic, it is also famously employed to flavor vermouth and absinthe, among numerous other applications.

Benefits

There are various health benefits of elecampane, including the following.

  1. It’s an expectorant and anti-inflammatory able to soothe coughs, colds, and asthma. In the early 1800s, elecampane was a traditional immunostimulatory component in cough drops and syrups for this precise reason.

  2. Elecampane has been employed since the times of the ancient Greeks as a tonic to support digestion, and its antibacterial properties make it a well-known remedy for nausea and diarrhea.

  3. Different components of this plant are also regularly used as an anthelmintic, eliminating worms and relieving the system of parasites.

  4. It contains antimicrobial qualities and is employed to alleviate respiratory maladies, such as bronchitis.

  5. It has slight diuretic characteristics; therefore, it is considered to be particularly effective for infections of the urinary system.

Uses

The multiple uses of elecampane comprise the following:

  1. The root of elecampane is the section that is most generally utilized medicinally.

  2. The dehydrated root may be consumed by itself, ground to release the composites, or served as a tincture or liquid decoction.

  3. Teas can also be made from the root, and it’s likewise a favorited essential oil.

When to avoid elecampane

  1. Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Women should bypass using this herb throughout pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

  2. Allergy: Individuals who possess an allergy to the ragweed species may have an opposing reaction.

  3. Sleepiness: Elecampane induces sleepiness; hence, it is advised to stop taking it at least a couple of weeks prior to surgery. Moreover, you shouldn’t use these herbal medicines if you’re job entails the operation of heavy machinery or vehicle conduction.

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