Herb
Elecampane
A bitter, aromatic root, taken as a decoction or syrup, traditionally used to loosen a deep, wet cough.
📊 How it ranks (our editor score) — 75/100Tap to see the breakdown
🌱 What it is
Elecampane is a tall, sunflower-like plant whose thick root has been used since ancient times as a warming remedy for coughs and chest congestion.
✨ Why it's good for you
- Traditionally used to help loosen a deep, wet cough
- May help soothe chest congestion
- Valued historically as a warming expectorant herb
- Often paired with honey for a soothing syrup
🥗 Nutrition
Per 1 cup brewed tea / 1 tsp root · about 5 calories
- Inulin (prebiotic fiber)
- Sesquiterpene lactones
- Volatile oils
Source: Nutrition estimate (per typical serving)
🥄 How to use it
Simmer ½–1 teaspoon of dried elecampane root in a cup of water for 10–15 minutes, sweeten with honey, and sip for a chesty cough; it's a warming expectorant.
How much: ½–1 teaspoon dried root as a decoctionA stronger tea made by simmering tough roots or bark. How to make a decoction →, sweetened, a few times daily.
Show full details & how to prepare it
Elecampane is a tall, sunflower-like plant whose bitter, aromatic root has long been a herbalist's friend for a deep, wet, rattling cough — a warming expectorant that helps the chest loosen and clear thick mucus. Its bitterness means it's used in modest amounts, often as a honey-sweetened decoctionA stronger tea made by simmering tough roots or bark. How to make a decoction → or syrupA sweet, thick herbal liquid that soothes the throat. How to make a syrup →.
Ways to prepare it
⚠️ Cautions
- Very bitter; large doses can cause nausea, vomiting, or cramping — keep to modest amounts.
- Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding; those allergic to daisies/ragweed may react.
- May lower blood sugar and add to sedatives — use caution with related medicines.
📚 What others say
- A traditional warming expectorant for wet coughs
- Long used to clear stubborn chest congestion
Learn more
🕊️ A word of encouragement
A bright bloom whose hidden root clears the breath. Help is often rooted deeper than it shows.
💬 Ask Remy about Elecampane
📚 Resource confidence
Based on mentions in health references
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