Elecampane (Inula helenium) – a perennial herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family, widely used in folk medicine and phytotherapy. The roots and rhizomes contain up to 45% inulin, essential oil, saponins, flavonoids, vitamin E, and other biologically active compounds. These components endow the plant with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, diuretic, and choleretic properties, as well as promote expectoration and improve the function of the respiratory tract.
The internal use of elecampane is made in the form of decoctions and infusions. To prepare a decoction, take 1 tablespoon of raw material per 200 ml of boiling water; the drink is taken warm, half a glass 2-3 times a day an hour before meals. The infusion is prepared on 70% alcohol in a ratio of 1:4 and is taken in doses of 25 drops three times a day before meals. These forms allow the use of a rich spectrum of active substances, including inulin and essential oils, for the treatment of respiratory tract diseases (bronchitis, tracheitis, cough), gastrointestinal tract (diarrhea, enterocolitis) and kidneys.
The external use of elecampane includes ointments and infusions on vegetable oil. To prepare an external remedy, a ratio of 1:10 of raw material to oil is used, which is then left to steep in the sun for two weeks. Such a cream or ointment is applied to eczema, scabies, neurodermatitis, as well as for rinsing the oral cavity and flushing wounds that do not heal for a long time. Elecampane is also used as an expectorant and mucolytic agent in combination with other vegetable oils (such as rosemary, lavender), but caution must be observed when using essential oils due to the possible allergic reaction.
Indications for the use of elecampane include acute and chronic diseases of the respiratory tract, influenza, kidney and liver pathologies, hypomenstrual syndrome, parasitic intestinal infections, as well as various gastrointestinal disorders. Contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, disturbance of blood sugar levels and blood pressure, as well as sensitivity to plants of the Asteraceae family. When using for a long time and interacting with medicinal drugs, it is necessary to consult a specialist.
