Elecampane — FarmPal

A towering sunflower relative with a powerful aromatic root used for deep respiratory infections. Contains inulin for gut health.

Scientific Name
Inula helenium
Growing Zones
Zones 3-8

Medicinal Properties

Expectorant
Antimicrobial
Prebiotic
Antitussive
Diaphoretic

Parts Used

Root

Traditional Uses

  • •Chronic cough and bronchitis
  • •Asthma support
  • •Tuberculosis (historically)
  • •Intestinal parasites
  • •Digestive tonic (prebiotic inulin)
  • •Poor appetite

Preparations

Decoction

Simmer 1 tsp dried chopped root in 8 oz water for 20 minutes. Strain.

Dosage: 1/2 cup 3 times daily for respiratory infections

Tincture

Fill jar 1/3 with fresh chopped root, cover with vodka. 6-8 weeks.

Dosage: 20-40 drops 3 times daily

Honey Paste (Electuary)

Mix powdered root with raw honey to form thick paste. Add cinnamon and ginger.

Dosage: 1/2 tsp 3 times daily for persistent cough. Tastes like floral honey-candy.

Harvesting Guide

Timing: Harvest roots in fall of second or third year.

Method: Dig with fork, wash thoroughly. Root has a distinctive camphor-like aroma.

Drying: Slice thin and dry at 100°F. Takes several days. Aromatic when dry.

⚠️ Cautions

  • •May cause allergic reactions in daisy-family sensitive people
  • •Avoid during pregnancy
  • •Large doses may cause nausea
  • •May interact with diabetes medications (affects blood sugar)
Storage
Dried root 2-3 years. Tincture 5+ years. Root becomes more aromatic with drying.