ENGLISH NAME: British
yellowhead
LATIN NAME: Inula britannica
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Oman britský
Turkey: İngiliz andızotu
Bulgaria: Британски оман (Britanski oman)
Georgia: ბრიტანული ინულა (Britanuli inula)
COUNTRY: Bulgaria, Czechia, Turkey, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Wetlands and riverbanks in South Bohemia (Czechia), Black Sea coastal
plains (Turkey), Upper Thracian lowlands (Bulgaria), Colchic lowlands and river
valleys (Georgia)
Elevation: 0–1200 meters
Terrain: Moist meadows, marshes, streambanks, and lowland pastures
DESCRIPTION:
A perennial herb reaching 30–80 cm in height, with lanceolate, slightly toothed
leaves and golden-yellow daisy-like flower heads with numerous narrow ray florets.
Flowers bloom from mid to late summer. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and
prefers damp or seasonally wet environments.
USABLE PARTS: Aerial parts –
primarily flowers and leaves; roots used less commonly
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used in both European and East Asian medicine. Acts as an
expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial. Used for coughs, bronchitis,
and digestive disorders such as bloating and poor appetite. In Chinese
medicine, it is also used to clear “damp-heat” and reduce phlegm.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Generally well tolerated. Prolonged use in large doses may irritate the stomach
or lead to dryness. Rare allergic reactions may occur in individuals sensitive
to the Asteraceae family.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Blends well with licorice, elecampane (Inula helenium), and thyme for
respiratory support. May be combined with yarrow or peppermint in digestive
formulas.
PREPARATION:
Dried flowers and leaves are used in infusions or decoctions. Can also be
prepared as a tincture or syrup for coughs. In some traditions, powdered herb
is used topically for skin conditions.
HARVEST TIME:
Mid to late summer (July–September), during full flowering
HARVEST METHOD:
Harvest the upper flowering parts with sharp scissors or a sickle. Collect on a
dry, sunny day when flower heads are fully open.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry quickly in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Store in airtight containers
protected from light and moisture. Use within 1 year for optimal potency.