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The power of herbal medicine never ceases to amaze me. A world of healing lies within almost every herb, just waiting to be unlocked. Whenever we encounter a health challenge, the natural world is there to support us, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and physically. Nature, in its infinite wisdom, provides us with so many powerful remedies. 

Over the past few weeks there has been a seasonal bug passing through my people and we’ve all been a bit under the weather with symptoms like sore throats and stubborn coughs, so today I am delving into the world of plant medicine to create a simple yet potent DIY lung tonic to nurture the respiratory health of my loved ones. 

Our concoction pulls from ancient herbal wisdom. It’s infused with elecampane root, ginger, and the golden nectar of raw local honey. When crafted with intention and love, it creates a potion of comfort and healing. These three natural ingredients offer the potential to soothe and fortify our lungs, guiding us back towards a state of balance and vitality. 

Let’s begin by exploring the medicinal benefits of each ingredient, and reflect on the ways they’ve been used traditionally for generations. 

Elecampane Root 

Elecampane is native to Europe and parts of Asia. Its botanical name is Inula helenium and it belongs to the Asteraceae family – the same family as sunflowers and daisies. It thrives in areas that are damp and moist such as deep in the woods and along healthy river banks. Long revered for its medicinal properties, Elecampane has been introduced to different parts of the world and now grows wild in parts of North America. Occasionally referred to by names like horse-heal and elfdock, it has pretty yellow flowers and roots with powerful health benefits. 

Elecampane is most often used in lung support. It has expectorant qualities, while simultaneously helping to soothe coughs. This means that it helps to ease coughing while still ensuring that your body is able to get out what needs to be released from the lungs. It’s a wonderful ally for anyone struggling with congestion from the respiratory tract and provides relief for those suffering from conditions like bronchitis and asthma. 

Ginger

Ginger is my constant companion. I’m a girl with lots of tummy problems, and nothing is more comforting than a cup of ginger tea, a homemade ginger beer, or even a sweet gingery candied chew when I’m feeling a little nauseous. Ginger helps to ignite our inner fire and stimulate circulation. It is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and invigorates our immune systems. Combined with elecampane, it infuses our lung tonic with warmth and vitality in our quest for respiratory harmony. 

Honey

The golden magic of raw local honey sweetens our potion and infuses it with countless health benefits. Honey has long held a sacred space in the realm of healing. It’s full of antioxidants and antimicrobial properties that help nurture our immune systems and soothe inflamed tissues. In traditional medicine it has been used to help treat everything from skin conditions to tuberculosis. It’s long been used to help soothe lung ailments and throat infections. In our concoction it helps to bind the flavors and cut the bitterness and spice or the other herbal ingredients while helping to soothe and lubricate your airways. 

Crafting our DIY lung tonic 

In order to create this healing elixir you will need:

• 1/4 cup elecampane root
• 1/4 cup ginger, sliced or grated
• 2 quarts of water
• Raw local honey
• Clean mason jars 

The process of creating the tonic is relatively simple. Chop up your herbs and place them in a large stock pot. Cover with 2 quarts of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once you’ve reached rolling boil, reduce to a simmer. Let your potion simmer for anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour until the liquid reduces by half. Strain out the herbs and then while it is still warm separate it into two mason jars. Mix with equal parts honey, and let it cool. 

This mixture can last for up to a week in the fridge. Take one teaspoon three times a day to help ease congestion and coughs. 

**As with any herbal remedy, it’s a good idea to do your own research and to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before you begin any new treatments. Elecampane is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Certain medications may also interact with the herbs. 

In the tapestry of existence, we are but threads intertwined with the natural world. Let us embrace the healing gifts that Mother Earth so generously offers, and may our journey be one of harmony and wholeness.  May this DIY lung tonic be a beacon of healing, guiding you towards radiant health and vitality.