Elecampane & Licorice
Elecampane root is Warm, Dry, Pungent and Bitter. It benefits the Qi, strengthens the Spleen, clears Damp, strengthens the Lungs, clears Phlegm and stops Cough and Wheezing. It is given for chronic Lung diseases including Cough, Bronchitis, Asthma, Wheezing, Emphysema etc. Also used to clear Poison, for Infectious diseases, this effect being related to the Qi-strengthening, immune-enhancing effects.
Licorice is warm and sweet, strengthens the Spleen, Tonifies the Qi, and benefits the Stomach. It is also much used for Cough, Asthma and various Lung diseases, and has an effect of clearing Heat and Poison. It is also a main medicine to relieve the negative effects of all harsh medicines.
Both these medicines are classed as Qi tonics. They both strengthen the Spleen and Stomach, enhance digestion, increase energy, and benefit immunity. They are usefully combined in cases with Fatigue, Poor Appetite, weak Digestion, and in cases with weakened immunity as seen in Chronic Illness and Convalescence.
Together, they have a secondary effect on the Lungs. They strengthen the Lung function (both the Lungs and Spleen are responsible for the body Qi), increase respiration, and are therefore useful in chronic Lung diseases associated with weakness and deficiency including Whooping Cough, Bronchitis, Asthma, Shortness of Breath, Wheezing, as well as more serious Lung diseases such as Emphysema, Silicosis, and Tuberculosis, and as an adjunct in Lung Cancer.
Examples
Decoction Against Lung Ulcers, Anti-Asthmatic Syrup, Syrup of Wild Mustard, Syrup of Elecampane, Syrup of Garlic, Tincture Against Asthma, Elixir of Health (Elixir Salutis), Pectoral Ale, Pectoral Salt
Additions
1. For Lung Cancer, or in chronic Lung Disease, add Comfrey root and Figwort.
2. For chronic Lung disease including Lung Cancer, add dry Figs and Hyssop.
3. For Emphysema, Tuberculosis and Lung Ulcers, add Comfrey, Figs and Raisins.
4. For deficiency with Fatigue and general Debility, add Figs and Cinnamon.