Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara Asteraceae)

Other Names: Tash Plant, Horse Foot, Bull's Foot, Coughwort, Farfara, Foalswort

Coltsfoot, a perennial native to Europe and Asia, grows up to 30 centimeters tall. In spring, yellow flowers bloom on scaly stems before heart-shaped leaves appear, covered with fine white hairs on the underside.

Parts for Use

Flowers and Leaves

1. Harvested between February and May.
2. Dried flowers are used in infusions and pharmaceutical preparations.

Ingredients

Coltsfoot flowers contain 6–10% mucilage and 5–10% tannins. Other components include flavonoids, carotenoids, triterpenes, phytosterols, and trace amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which may be mildly toxic.

Use in Treatment

Tannins provide antiseptic properties, while mucilage supports immunity, reduces inflammation, and softens mucus during coughs. Flavonoids and phytosterols contribute anti-inflammatory effects, and flavonoids alone may reduce muscle tension and cramps. These properties make coltsfoot potentially effective for asthma, bronchitis, dry cough, and mouth and throat irritation. Coltsfoot ointments or balms may aid in treating cuts and skin inflammation by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. However, due to potential toxicity from pyrrolizidine alkaloids, coltsfoot should only be used under medical supervision.

Cultivation

Coltsfoot is grown from seed in moist, neutral, or alkaline soil in sunny or partially shaded areas. Do not prepare coltsfoot remedies at home due to potential toxicity.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal and External Use (Asthma, Bronchitis, Coughs, Cuts, Muscle Cramps, Skin Inflammation, Mouth and Throat Irritation)

1. Preparations: Use only doctor-prescribed coltsfoot-based infusions, ointments, or balms, as pyrrolizidine alkaloids may be toxic.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use due to potential toxicity.
2. Coltsfoot preparations are prohibited during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
3. Due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids, use only with a doctor’s consent and for no longer than 3–4 weeks.