FolkKB

Elecampane

Inula helenium

Inula helenium is a perennial herb used extensively in various traditional medicine systems. It has been historically employed as an expectorant, diuretic, stomachic, and vermifuge, with applications ranging from treating bronchitis and asthma to managing infections and coughs. Scientific research has identified sesquiterpene lactones as key bioactive constituents, with some studies suggesting potential for treating colitis or liver cancer in models, though clinical validation remains necessary. Additionally, certain isolated compounds have shown acaricidal activity. No major safety issues or notable drug interactions have been recorded in the available data.

At a glance
Traditionally for
diuretic · stomachic
Traditions
Western phytotherapy · TCM · traditional
Best evidence
D
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

Traditional use

What the science says

  • The study isolated eudesmanolides from Inula helenium and synthesized analogs, finding some showed acaricidal activity against Varroa destructor. D PMID
  • Treatment with isoalantolactone from Inula helenium improved colitis symptoms and altered gut microbiota and metabolites in mice. D PMID
  • This study suggests that Inula helenium may treat liver cancer by targeting several key pathways and genes, though further clinical validation is needed. D PMID
  • The study identified 429 compounds from Aucklandia lappa, Vladimiria souliei, and Inula helenium, highlighting sesquiterpene lactones as key bioactive constituents. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Elecampane?

Elecampane (Inula helenium) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What is Elecampane traditionally used for?

Traditional sources record Elecampane for: diuretic, stomachic, vermifuge, expectorant, infections, pertussis. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.

Which traditions use Elecampane?

Elecampane appears in these traditions in our sources: Western phytotherapy, TCM, traditional.

What does the scientific evidence say about Elecampane?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Elecampane; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study isolated eudesmanolides from Inula helenium and synthesized analogs, finding some showed acaricidal activity against Varroa destructor.

How strong is the evidence for Elecampane?

The strongest finding for Elecampane carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Elecampane safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Elecampane in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Elecampane interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Elecampane in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Elecampane?

Elecampane is also known as: девясил высокий, Grande Aunée.

Is Elecampane a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T3 Dr. Duke's Ethnobotanical Database public domain (USDA ARS — attribute Dr. Duke's)
  2. T2 Aucklandia lappa, Vladimiria souliei, and Inula helenium: A comprehensive review on the ethnomedicines, phytochemicals, quality control and pharmacology of three confusable Muxiang varieties (2015-2025). literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Mechanism of Inula Helenium in Liver Cancer Treatment: Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 From Nature to Synthesis and Vice Versa: Costic Acid Analogs with Acaricidal Activity Against the Bee Parasite Varroa destructor. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Isoalantolactone ameliorates ulcerative colitis via gut microbiota-mediated modulation of intestinal barrier, T cell homeostasis, and metabolite reprogramming. literature abstract metadata