Elecampane

At a Glance

Common name

Elecampane

Scientific name

Inula helenium

Family

Asteraceae

Region

Europe

Plant part

Root

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A tall sturdy perennial 1-2 m tall with large oval toothed leaves, a branching stem crowned by big yellow daisy-like flower heads with many narrow ray petals, and a thick aromatic fleshy taproot.

Also known as: Horseheal, Elf Dock, Inula

Historical Background

Elecampane was revered in Greek, Roman, and medieval European medicine as a warming chest and digestive herb. By legend it sprang from the tears of Helen of Troy, and its aromatic, inulin-rich root was candied into digestive lozenges and brewed into cough syrups for centuries.

Earliest recorded uses: Greek and Roman medicine; named for Helen of Troy; long a European cough remedy.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Warm, bitter, camphoraceous, honey-spicy

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Elecampane has a long tradition as a warming expectorant and digestive root, rich in inulin. Clinical evidence is insufficient; traditional chest uses are not substantiated by trials, and it is not a treatment for cough, infection, or respiratory disease.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.