This was one of the most important herbs to the Greeks and Romans and was traditionally regarded as a cure-all for a wide range of ailments, including dropsy, digestive upsets, menstrual disorders and sciatica. Elecampane is one our largest herbaceous plants found throughout England. Today it is mainly used for respiratory problems.

The root is an excellent tonic, especially for weakness after influenza or bronchitis. It has also been used to help shift stubborn phlegm and in coughs and congestion.

Mucilage, tannins, alkaloids, inulin, zinc, bitter principle, sterols, volatile oil

The plant is traditionally used as a tonic, stimulating expectorant, promotes sweating, antibacterial, antifungal and antiparasitic.

Decoction This is traditionally used for bronchitis, asthma, upper respiratory catarrh and to ease hay fever symptoms and should be taken regularly in long standing complaints.

Tincture This is traditionally taken as a tonic in chronic respiratory complaints.

Syrup This is traditionally prescribed for coughs using the decoction process.