Inula racemosa
Synopsis of inula racemosa
Inula racemosa, commonly known as pushkarmool or Indian elecampane, is a perennial herb native to the Himalayan region, particularly found in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. The root is the primary medicinal part and is prized in Ayurvedic, Unani, and Tibetan medicine for its powerful effects on the respiratory, cardiovascular, and digestive systems. It contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpene lactones (alantolactone, isoalantolactone), inulin (a prebiotic fiber), flavonoids, and essential oils, which contribute to its expectorant, bronchodilatory, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties.
In modern herbal practice, Inula racemosa is primarily used to treat chronic respiratory disorders, including asthma, bronchitis, cough, and pulmonary congestion. It helps to loosen mucus, ease breathing, and reduce bronchial inflammation. It is also known for its vasodilatory and heart-supporting actions, traditionally used in chest pain (angina), palpitations, and poor coronary circulation.
Additionally, pushkarmool supports digestion by reducing bloating, gas, and sluggish metabolism, and it is considered a warming herb that enhances circulation and lung vitality.
Historical Use
In Ayurvedic medicine, Inula racemosa is classified as Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter), and Ushna (heating), and is used to balance Vata and Kapha doshas. It is one of the key herbs for shwas roga (respiratory diseases) and is mentioned in classical texts like the Charaka Samhita and Bhavaprakasha. It is also used in Hridroga (heart disorders), where its warming and circulatory-enhancing effects were believed to revitalize the heart and lungs.
In Unani medicine, it is known as kuth and used to treat chronic respiratory and digestive issues, as well as to relieve inflammation and pain. It has been combined with other herbs like licorice, ginger, and cinnamon in classical formulations to enhance lung function and promote expectoration.
Inula racemosa is also used in Tibetan medicine, where it is considered a powerful herb for lung congestion, chest disorders, and digestive weakness, often included in warming and decongestant formulas.
Today, Inula racemosa remains a respected botanical for respiratory support, especially in chronic or congestive lung conditions, and is also appreciated for its cardiovascular and digestive benefits, bridging traditional use with modern herbal applications for lung health and circulation support.
Inula racemosa is used for these health conditions
Angina (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Chest Pain (Traditional)
Chills (Traditional)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Congestion (sinus) (Traditional)
Cough (damp) (Traditional)
Cough (dry) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Cough (spastic) (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Emphysema (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Heart (weakness) (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Indigestion (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Laryngitis (Traditional)
Lungs (fluid in) (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Rhinitis (Traditional)
Rhinitis, Allergic (Traditional)
Sinus Infection (Traditional)
Sore Throat (Traditional)
Tuberculosis (Traditional)
Wheezing (Traditional)
inula racemosa is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Bronchials (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Products containing inula racemosa
Nature's Sunshine Bronchial Formula (Ayurvedic)
Nature's Sunshine Respiratory System (30 Day Program)
