Elecampane, or Inula helenium, is a widespread plant species in the sunflower family Asteraceae. The plant grows up to 6 feet tall, with large leaves and yellow, daisy-like flowers. Elecampane was used for medicinal purposes in Ancient Greek times, while its roots were candied and eaten as confectionery in Medieval Europe. It is said that Elecampane is named after Helen of Troy, hence the name helenium, because she carried the flowers with her when abducted from Sparta.