Some exciting news has emerged today in Ireland. Research has found that a wild flower growing in West Cork could hold the key to wiping out the deadly superbug MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphyloccus aureus). A post-graduate student, at the Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) has identified a wild flower which is effective against the antibiotic-resistant superbug. Inula helenium (elecampane) is a tall plant which grows wild and blossums in late summer. It is indigenous to Europe and Asia and is now grown in the USA as well. The dried roots and rhizomes (branching part of the the root) are collected and used in herbal preparations to treat respiratory and digestive problems.
The 2-year research project in Cork has shown that extracts from the plant were 100% effective against MRSA as well as a broad spectrum of other bacteria. It now looks as if this plant has the potential to become a useful weapon in the fight against MRSA. It’s fantastic to see Ireland lead the way in research which in time, could help to save lives worldwide. This is good news indeed and holds great hope for the future.