The plant also offers some antifungal properties. The rhizome is used to treat bronchitis and whooping cough. This herb has also been used to treat menstrual cramps and given as a diuretic and stomachic. In homeopathy, elecampane formulas are given to treat chronic cough and stomach ulcers. The alantolactone derivatives are collectively known as helenalin or elecampane camphor.
Large doses can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, spasms and signs of paralysis.
Constituents of this herb are highly irritating to mucous membranes.