User:Bhc2004/sandbox/helenin

Helenin is a phytochemical sesquiterpenoid lactone (a mixture of alantolactone and its isomer) found in many plant species, including the Inula Helenium (Asteraceae family). It has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy for such maladies as: dropsy, menstrual disorders, digestive upsets, coughs, bronchitis, asthma and and sciatica. in 1895 a German Scientist, extracted Helenin from Inula Helenium, and determined its physical and chemical properties. Since then others in the scientific and medical community have investigated the bioactivity of Helenin to confirm or refute the herbalist claims about this phytochemical. Research has shown that Helenin has a positive effect against some cancers. It has proven to be effective in the treatment of inflammation, bacterial infections, asthma, some cardiovascular diseases, diarrhea, fungus infections, roundworms and migraines.

Natural Sources:
Alantolactone occurs in the roots of elecampane (inula helenium) and other and other inula species.