Elecampane, also called horse-heal or elfdock, is a widespread plant species in the sunflower family Asteraceae. It is native to Eurasia from Spain to Xinjiang province in western China and naturalized in parts of North America. The root of this herb has long been used for its medicinal properties. 

Key Health Benefits of Elecampane

Cough Support

Elecampane's anti-tussive properties are what makes it effective in decreasing coughs. It also possesses expectorant properties which can help loosen phlegm and mucus. It can be used for those nasty, lingering coughs and colds that make you feel unwell for weeks. It can be used for chronic coughs too, like those that are due to smoking or asthma.

Lung Support

This is a great herb for lung support which can be taken to support asthma, bronchitis and intense coughs, meaning that it supports the normal functioning of the respiratory tract. 

Parasite Control

Another less well-known use for this herb is as a treatment for parasite infections, although there is not much information on exactly how elecampane is beneficial in this case.

Elecampane Supplement Varieties: Potency, Forms & Formats

Elecampane can be purchased as a dried herb, encapsulated herb, liquid extract or tincture. It is found in formulas for coughs, asthma and lung cleansing.

Potential Side Effects

Skin contact with this herb may cause contact dermatitis. Elecampane is possibly safe for most adults when taken by mouth in usual medicinal amounts, but is possibly unsafe when taken in large amounts. Large amounts of elecampane can cause vomiting, diarrhea, spasms, and paralysis.