Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Elecampane (Inula helenium) has a long history of traditional use as an herbal remedy for respiratory conditions, especially those involving bronchial congestion. In traditional Western herbalism and some systems of folk medicine, elecampane root has been valued for its expectorant properties, meaning it was believed to help loosen and expel mucus from the lungs and bronchial passages. The root contains compounds such as inulin, alantolactone, and isoalantolactone, which are thought to contribute to its therapeutic effects.

Historical sources, including texts from ancient Greece and medieval Europe, mention elecampane as a treatment for coughs, bronchitis, and other conditions involving the respiratory tract. It was commonly prepared as a syrup, tincture, or decoction for these purposes. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, it was included in many herbal cough remedies.

While there is some laboratory evidence that constituents of elecampane have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. As a result, its application for bronchial congestion remains primarily based on traditional knowledge rather than modern scientific validation. The rating of 2 reflects the historical use and limited preclinical data, but acknowledges the absence of strong clinical evidence.

More about elecampane
More about Congestion (bronchial)

Other ingredients used for Congestion (bronchial)

Other health conditions supported by elecampane

Products containing elecampane

Nature's Sunshine Artemisia Combination
Nature's Sunshine Candida Clear
Nature's Sunshine Caprylic Acid Combination
Nature's Sunshine Gastro Health
Nature's Sunshine Para-Cleanse