Page:The family kitchen gardener - containing plain and accurate descriptions of all the different species and varieties of culinary vegetables (IA familykitchengar56buis).pdf/147



Elecampane is a strong-growing perennial plant, a native of Britain, rising from three to five feet high. It is cultivated in most gardens, and delights in a moist or shaded situation. It can be propagated by dividing the root in the Autumn. The roots are thick, Carrot-shaped, and aromatic; when dried, ground, and made into a tea, it is considered an excellent remedy for a cold. In some countries the root is candied and used as a stomachic for strengthening the tone of the viscera.

in many parts of the world, on waste ground, and among rubbish, in hot, dry, and dusty situations. The plant is annual, and may be raised by sowing the seeds in any of the Spring months. The leaves have a moderately strong smell, of the aromatic kind, but not agreeable; their taste is very penetrating, bitter, and durable in the mouth. This herb was extolled by the ancients for its efficacy in removing obstructions of the lungs. It has been chiefly employed in humoral asthmas, obstinate coughs, and pulmonary consumptions. Its use is also said to be beneficial in affections of the liver. Lozenges made of the juice of this herb and sugar are esteemed good for colds. Though Horehound possesses some share of medicinal power, its virtues do not appear to be clearly ascertained, and it is now rarely prescribed by physicians.