September 5, 2002

ELECAMPANE

Latin Name: Inula helenium

Alternate Names: Scabwort, Horseheal, Elfdock, Elfwort

Family: ASTERACEAE

Parts Used: Root, flower.

Properties: Alterative, Analgesic, Anthelmintic, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Antitussive, Aromatic, Astringent, Carminative, Cholagogue, Diaphoretic, Digestive Tonic, Diuretic, Expectorant, Rejuvenative, Stimulant, Stomach Tonic, Tonic.

Internal Uses: Asthma, Bronchitis, Chest Colds, Cough, Diphtheria, Emphysema, Exhaustion, Fever, Hay Fever, Parasites, Pneumonia, Respiratory Problems, Tuberculosis, Wheezing, Whooping Cough, Worms

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsule, Syrup, Lozenges.

It inhibits the production of phlegm that is the result of weak digestion. In oriental medicine, the flowers are used in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis and excessive phlegm. Elecampane contains alantolactone, which helps to expel intestinal parasites, such as pinworms.

Topical Uses: Blemishes, Scabies

Topical Applications: A wash can be made of the roots and leaves to cleanse the skin and to treat blemishes, also to deter scabies.

Culinary uses: The roots can be candied and are used to flavor other sweet dishes. The root is also cooked as a vegetable. Used in wines and liqueurs.

Energetics: Bitter, Pungent, Warm, Dry.

Chemical Constituents: Inulin, mucilage, essential oil (azulene), lactones, alantolactone, camphor, sterols, sesquiterpenes.

Comments: The names Elecampane is derived from the Latin campana, meaning 'country'. The species name, helenium, is said to be named after Helen of Troy, who was collecting Elecampane when she was captured by Paris. Elecampane was used by the early Romans, Greeks and Celts to counter the ill effects of overeating.

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), September 05, 2002

Answers

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), September 05, 2002.