Papaya - a world class meat tenderizer, natural digestive aid, prevents ulcers, and also a soft contact lense cleaner.Healing with Elecampane
The Food and Drug Administration says elecampane “was employed by the ancients for diseases in which it was probably of no service.” This herb has not been well researched, but the few scientific studies to date suggest that for once, Nicholas Culpeper wasn’t completely off the deep end.
Intestinal Parasites - European scientists have discovered elecampane contains a chemical (alantolactone) that really does help expel intestinal parasites, as Culpeper claimed for the herb. The herb also kills some bacteria and fungi, adding to its potential therapeutic action in the intestine.
Intestinal parasites, especially pinworms and giardiasis (caused by the protozoan Giardia lamblia) are a growing problem in the United States. Families with children in day care are particularly susceptible.
Intestinal parasites are quite common in the tropics. If you travel overseas, do what Helen of Troy did-take some elecampane with you.
Women’s Health - Elecampane has not been shown to stimulate uterine contractions, but because of its long tradition as a menstruation promoter, women may want to try some to help bring on their periods.
Intriguing Possibilities - In animal tests conducted in Europe, elecampane reduces blood pressure. People with high blood pressure might try it in consultation with their physicians.
Elecampane has been shown to have a sedative effect in experimental animals. Those with insomnia might try some before bed.
Rx for Elecampane
Elecampane’s main use is to help prevent and fight intestinal parasites To use it for this purpose or (in consultation with your physician) to keep your blood pressure down, use either a decoction or a tincture. For a decoction, gently boil 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried, powdered root in 3 cups of water for 30 minutes. The taste is bitter. Take 1 or 2 tablespoons at a time with honey, up to 2 cups a day.
In a tincture, use ¼ to ½ teaspoon up to three times a day. Elecampane should not be given to children under age 2. For older children and people over 65, start with low-strength preparations and increase strength if necessary.