ELECAMPE
(Inula viscosa)
Appearance
A perennial or annual with unstalked, narrow, hairy,
gland-dotted and highly aromatic leaves. The plant forms a dense mass
branching from the ground. Tiny closely packed yellow flowers appear from
August to November.
Habitat
Grows from sea-level to 5,000 ft in moist situations all over
Cyprus by roadsides, riversides and on bare ground. It is often the first
plant to colonise recently cleared ground.
Uses and Properties
The plant has been used in the past for treating
enteritis and gonorrhea. Powdered leaves were employed to treat burns. The
roots which are rich in inulin, resins and other aromatic compounds are
employed as powders or infusions for their expectorant, diuretic and tonic
properties. The plant is an efficient insect repellent and is often rubbed
on window shutters in villages and used to repel fleas by striking
mattresses with fresh stems.
