Elecampane

(S) Pushkaramula

(C) Xuan fu

Part Used: roots and flowers

Energetics: pungent, bitter/heating/pungent KV- P+

Tissues: all except reproductive

Systems: respiratory, nervous, digestive

Actions: expectorant, antispasmodic, carminative, analgesic, rejuvenative

Indications: colds, asthma, cardiac asthma, pleurisy, dyspepsia, cough, nervous debility

Precautions: high Pitta conditions generally

Preparation: decoction, powder (250 mg to 1 g), paste

ELECAMPANE is one of the best rejuvenative tonics for the lungs. It is effective for reducing excess Kapha and strengthening the muscles of the lungs, promoting longevity of the lung tissues. It helps to absorb water from the lungs and reduce swelling. It is one of the best expectorants and cough-relievers and has a calming action on the digestive system, the mind, and the female reproductive organs.

As a diaphoretic and expectorant it can be taken with such herbs as ginger, pippali, cinnamon and cardamom. As a tonic and rejuvenative it can be taken with such herbs as ashwagandha, comfrey root or marshmallow. It may be used externally as a paste for muscular pain, one­half ounce may be simmered in one pint of water for 20 minutes and taken three times a day after meals, with honey as a lung tonic.