Health Benefits of Elecampane

Health Benefits of Elecampane

Elecampane (inula helenium) also known as elfwort, elfdock, scabwort, horseheal and yellow starwort, is flowering herb belonging to the Asteraceae family native to Europe and Asia. Its root is used as medicine. Elecampane has been traditionally used in folk medicine to help kill bacteria, suppress coughing, thin mucus, promote sweating and alleviate vomiting. Elecampane is also used to flavor foods and beverages or as fragrance in cosmetics and soaps.

Elecampane has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anticancer properties.

Elecampane is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body and may help prevent the risk of chronic diseases. Elecampane contains many active compounds including alantolactone which may promote cancer cell death based on test-tube studies but more research is needed.

Elecampane may help treat gastrointestinal issues such as killing worms that may live in the intestine.

Elecampane may help treat respiratory conditions including tuberculosis, rhinitis, bronchitis, COPD and throat infections.

Elecampane may also help treat fungal infections, skin disorders and urinary tract infections.

Elecampane may interact with certain medications.

As always, consult with your physician.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elecampane

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/elecampane-root

https://www.verywellhealth.com/elecampane-4766904

https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/elecampane.htm

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-2/elecampane

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/elecampane