Elecampane, Inula helenium, is a tall, showy, flowering plant in the sunflower family. Not only is it easy to grow, but it has also been used medicinally for many, many years. The plant’s specific name, helenium, derives from Helen of Troy; elecampane is said to have sprung up from where her tears fell. It was also commonly known as horse heal. It was sacred to the ancient Celts and once had the name “elfwort.” The plant traditionally was held to be associated with the elves and fairy folk. Have I got your interest? Let’s learn more.

A native plant of both Europe and Asia, elecampane was beloved by the Celts and revered by the Romans, making this distant cousin of sunflower one of the world’s oldest medicinal remedies. It was historically prescribed as a digestive tonic since the days of the ancient Greeks. It also has a long history for being antibacterial, as an anthelmintic (for killing worms and parasites) and for ridding the system of infestations. Because of its antimicrobial properties, it is used to relieve respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, and because of its slight diuretic ability, it has been helpful for infections of the urinary tract. In the 1800s, it was a common ingredient in cough drops and cough syrups. Because of its expectorant and anti-inflammatory qualities, it was believed to calm coughs, colds and asthma. More recently, it is well-known as a flavor in both absinthe and vermouth.