Coltsfoot
Synonym(s)
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Tussilago farfara, also known as coltsfoot, is the only plant species within the genus Tussilago of the Asteraceae family. The plant is one of the spring flowers and was awarded medicinal plant of the year in 1994. The name Tussilago comes from the Latin tussis = cough and agere = to lead away, corresponding to the folk medicine use of coltsfoot.
The dried leaves (coltsfoot leaves - Farfarae folium) are used phytotherapeutically.
General informationThis section has been translated automatically.
Coltsfoot grows as a perennial, herbaceous plant and reaches growth heights of between 10 and 30 cm. The basal leaves reach a width of about 10 to 20 cm and have a heart- or hoof-like shape. The leaves are characterised by a slightly bitter taste and a rather faint odour.
In spring only the yellow inflorescences appear at first, only after they have withered do the leaves grow. At flowering time the stems are only covered with brown or reddish, hairy scale leaves. The flowers have a faint scent of honey and taste similar to the leaves, but slightly sweeter.
Tussilago farfara is the parent plant of Farfarae folium
Cosmetics: Tussilago farfara leaf extract refers to the drug extracted from the leaves of the plant.
Ingredient(s)This section has been translated automatically.
acid mucilage polysaccharides (6-10%), inulin, tannins, cave: may contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (hepatotoxic), but in special cultivars free of pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
NaturopathyThis section has been translated automatically.
Mucilage drug: coltsfoot mucilage forms a protective layer that shields irritants from the sensitive mucous membrane in the throat and trachea, thus reducing the irritation of the cough. Additionally soothing and antiphlogistic effect.
Indication according to Commission E: Catarrh of the upper respiratory tract with cough and hoarseness, inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth and throat.
Daily dose: 4-6 g drug - maximum 4-6 weeks / year!
Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.
Contraindication in pregnancy and lactation, also caution in children.
LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.
- Schilcher H et al. (2010) Leitfaden Phytotherapie, 4th edition: 163-164.
- https://arzneipflanzenlexikon.info/huflattich.php
- Wenigmann M. (2017) Phytotherapy medicinal drugs, phytopharmaceuticals, application. Urban & Fischer, pp. 127-128