Elecampane

Inula helenium

 

Common Names 

Scabwort, elf dock, velvet dock, wild sunflower, yellow starwort, horse heal

 

Active Constituents

Helenin, inulin, essential oil

 

Therapeutic Actions

Cholagogue, expectorant, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, aperitive, carminative, diaphoretic, rubefacient, stimulant, emetic, anthelmintic, alterative, antiasthmatic, antiscorbutic, stomachic, vulnerary, tonic, antiseptic

 

Medicinal Uses

Chronic respiratory infections, worms, asthma, bronchitis, cystitis, delayed menstruation, inflammation, slow liver, skin disease, neuralgia, diabetes, sciatica, gastritis, water retention

 

Preparation

Each preparation may be taken three times a day.

Decoction: 2-4 teaspoons   Fluid Extract: 1 ½ ml to 4ml

Powder: 1 teaspoon         Tincture: 3ml – 5ml

Alantolactone: anthelmintic 300mg daily for ten days: children 50 mg-200mg

 

Contraindications

Pregnant or nursing women should not take elecampane. Exceeding the dosage can cause negative side effects such as diarrhea, vomiting, paralysis, and spasms. It can cause contact dermatitis. Elecampane should not be taken by anyone on treatment for hypoglycemia, or high blood pressure

 

*These statements are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a physician before starting new supplements.