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Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Elecampane (elekampane in tagalog)


(Inula heminum) Part used: Root. Properties: Cholagogue, diuretic, expectorate, stomachic, astringent, stimulant. What it affects: Lungs, stomach and spleen.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 15-30 min. Take 1-2 cups daily, hot or cold. Decoction: Simmer 15-30 min. Take 1 Tbsp., as needed or 1-2 cups daily. Tincture: Take 30-60 drops (1/2 – 1 tsp.) 1-2 times daily. Fluid extract: Take 1/2 – 1 tsp. 1-2 times daily. Powder: Take 3-10 #0 capsules (20-60 grains) 1-2 times daily.

Purposes: Internally, Elecampane tea is frequently used to quite coughing, to stimulate digestion, and to tone the stomach. It is useful for all respiratory tract inflammation. For chronic lung ailments, combine with wild cherry bark, white pine bark, comfrey root and licorice. The oil is excellent for treating respiratory and intestinal catarrh, chronic diarrhea, chronic bronchitis and whooping cough.
  • Elecampane promotes expectoration and is good for whooping cough, weak digestion, and poor assimilation. The decoction taken in 1 Tbsp. dosages will counteract stomach poisons and increase digestive power. The Chinese  use it to counteract ingested poisons. A decoction is made using 1 ounce of the root, simmered in a pint of water for 1 hour, then taken in doses of 2 tsp. as needed. The powdered root is taken in capsules (1 capsule) or 1/2 tsp. of the tincture of each dose, 3 times daily. The decoction or tincture also expels worms. When combined with Echinacea, it is excellent for tuberculosis.

Externally, elecampane can be used as a wash or fomentation for skin problems, such as scabies, itches and skin diseases.

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