Elecampane is a perennial herbaceous plant from the daisy family (Asteraceae, traditionally Compositae). The species is botanically accepted as Inula helenium L. and is native from Southeastern Europe to Western Siberia and Iran, including Bulgaria.
The plant develops a thick rhizome, upright stems and large leaves that are softly hairy underneath. The flower heads are yellow, with well-developed ray florets, and appear during summer. The roots and rhizomes are valuable aromatic raw materials for herbal teas, extracts, syrups, respiratory botanical formulations and herbal powders.
Basic Information
- Latin name: Inula helenium L.
- Parts used: roots and rhizomes (Radix Inulae helenii)
- Origin: Bulgaria
- Raw material type: wild-harvested and cultivated
- Harvest period: September – November or March – April
Raw Material Characteristics
The roots and rhizomes are harvested in autumn or early spring, when the concentration of active compounds is well developed. After harvesting, the raw material is cleaned, cut if required and dried carefully to preserve its aroma, colour and overall quality.
Chemical Composition
Elecampane contains mainly inulin, essential oil, sesquiterpene lactones, alantolactone, isoalantolactone, flavonoids, saponins, triterpenes and phenolic compounds.
Suitable for the Production of
- herbal teas
- dry and liquid botanical extracts
- syrups
- respiratory botanical formulations
- digestive comfort products
- functional herbal products
- herbal powders
Medicinal Properties and Effects on the Body
Elecampane has the following properties:
- expectorant
- anti-inflammatory
- antimicrobial
- antioxidant
- diuretic
- supportive effect on respiratory comfort
- supportive effect on digestive comfort
Forms Available
- elecampane roots and rhizomes (Radix Inulae helenii) – whole dried, crushed, cut to custom size, or powdered
Quality and Documentation
Upon request, a Certificate of Analysis (COA), technical documentation, batch traceability and additional documents may be provided.
Inquiry
Contact us for availability, bulk quantities, samples and a custom quotation based on the required raw material specifications.