The Latin name of elecampane comes from Helen of Troy, who was supposed to have carried elecampane with her while being abducted from Sparta. Revered by the ancient Greeks and Romans, this herb was recommended for treating such diverse problems as indigestion, melancholy, sciatica, bronchitis, and asthma.
What Is Elecampane Used for Today?
Some modern herbalists regard elecampane as a long-term treatment for respiratory diseases such as
asthma
and bronchitis, especially when excessive mucus is a notable feature. However, there is no real evidence that it is effective for this purpose.
Elecampane is also sometimes recommended as a daily supplement to improve general digestion.
One of elecampane's constituents, alantolactone, has been used in concentrated form as a treatment for intestinal parasites,
1
but it isn't clear whether the whole herb is particularly effective for this purpose.
A typical dosage of elecampane root is 1.5 to 4 g 3 times daily, either in capsule form or boiled in water as tea.
Safety Issues
The only reported adverse effects of elecampane are occasional allergic reactions. However, safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established.
References
1:
Newall C, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD.
Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals
. London, England: Pharmaceutical Press; 1996:106.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
