People have long used elecampane root and other species of the Inula genus of herbs in folk medicine to thin mucus, suppress coughing, promote sweating, alleviate vomiting, and kill bacteria.
Elecampane root’s uses in folk medicine aren’t backed by scientific evidence. Still, recent research suggests that it may have potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial effects, as well as potentially benefit respiratory health.