Inula helenium (Elecampane)

Member of the daisy family. Perennial with stout stems bearing daisy-like yellow flowers and pointed leaves. Contain inulin, alantol, helenin, alantic acid, and acrid resin. Only the root (rhizome) is used. In herbal remedies it has been used for settling an upset stomach, easing a stitch in the side, relieving coughs and shortness of breath. It has also been used as a vermifuge and as a gargle to help fasten loose teeth. At one time, its roots were candied and eaten as a sweetmeat.