Elecampane / Coughs

Herb Of The Week / Elecampane / Coughs

Elecampane (Inula helenium) is an herb whose typical use is for bad
and or irritating bronchial coughs, especially in children.
Elecampane has been known and used since the days of ancient Rome.
Recent studies support the ancient tradition of using elecampane to
treat respiratory infections. Elecampane contains inulin, a
phytochemical that coats and soothes the lining of the bronchial
passages and acts as an expectorant in the body. Additionally inulin
helps promote good intestinal bacteria, which ensure good colonic
health including regular bowel movements. Studies have also shown two
other active ingredients in elecampane, alantolactone and
isoalantolactone, to be useful in expelling parasites, including
roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, and threadworm, from the intestine;
this research supports the traditional use of elecampane for healthy
digestion and parasitic infection.


Elecampane is native to the temperate regions of Europe and Asia, and
can now be found in China and the United States as well. The active
ingredients in Elecampane have shown an ability to reduce
inflammation, kill bacteria and fungus, and loosen phlegm in the
lungs. The portion of the plant used in remedies is the fleshy root,
which has a strong odor and a pungent, bitter, tangy taste.


IMPORTANT:
Although no interactions with other drugs have been reported
Elecampane should be used with care, if at all. Even though it is
known to be soothing to mucous tissue, IT ALL DEPENDS ON WHOSE TAKING
IT. Depending on the person, it can also be severely irritating to the
lining of the nose, throat, stomach, and intestines, and frequently
triggers an allergic reaction.

Overdosage
Symptoms of overdose include vomiting, diarrhea, spasms, and signs of
paralysis. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention
immediately.


But why take my word for it?


By good utilization of search engine technology, we can look up
information as in depth as we desire in our own free time. As we
mention all the time, with every post, that you can research anything
mentioned in this newsletter on your own. Some good search engines are
www.mamma.com or www.google.com. or www.dogpile.com or
www.askjeeves.com ...etc. By entering one or more keywords you can do
your own research.


Until next time remember .... most illness (upwards of 80% according
to experts) can be attributed to FOUR important factors that can
weaken your immune system and your ability to fight off disease:


1. Anxiety, depression, anger, resentment, guilt and other STRESS
factors
2. Improper and/or inadequate NUTRITION habits
3. A sedentary lifestyle that does not include enough EXERCISE
4. Not enough rest and quality SLEEP time

The United States Surgeon General warned Americans in a landmark 1988
report on Nutrition and Health that "diet related diseases account for
68% of U.S. deaths"


Remember, we ALWAYS recommend that you ALWAYS consult a professional
herbalist, naturopathologist or physician. We are just passing along
what we hope to be useful information.


Bye-Bye,

Q