To read this article with images and video, go to http://www.herbmentor.com/articles/20080930

Though we have a video here on this site, I wanted to republish this old newsletter for Elecampane month for those who have trouble with video....

I used to use lots of different herbs for coughs, but the one I use the most is Elecampane (Inula helenium). It's my favorite home remedy for cough.

Elecampane is a cough suppressant AS WELL AS a natural expectorant. It is a great, all purpose cough remedy that is EASY to grow and make medicine from.

Make your medicine with honey?

My favorite way to take Elecampane is infused in honey.

Elecampane is REALLY easy to grow. It is also low maintenance. I barely even have to water mine in the summer.

In the fall, dig up the entire plant and cut off part of the root. I usually snip off the longer, thicker roots. I then wash them up. Then…

1) Slice the roots in bite sized pieces, not too small.

2) Fill half a jar with them.

3) Fill the entire jar with honey.

4) Turn over the jar a few times a day for a few days.

5) In a few days, it's ready!

6) Keep it in the fridge.

When you have a cough, simply eat the honey. Honey also feels good on the throat as well. Also, eat the pieces of root. They are candied. I chew on them for a while, then spit them out. Honey in itself can be a home remedy for cough.

This is my favorite way to take Elecampane. Kids love it too!