Coltsfoot Dried Flowers

Latin Name: Tussilago Farfara

Tussilago Farfara – coltsfoot or Hamolefki, is a herbaceous, perennial plant with yellow flowers that look like small daisies. It provides a soft sweet floral aroma ideal for gentle, soothing teas

It is said to have been used in the ancient days of Greece and Rome to relieve bronchial congestion and all types of respiratory problems.

The nutritional constituents of Coltsfoot are rich and varied. It contains mucilage, tannin, the alkaloid pyrrolizidine, and saponins.

It is known for its ability as an expectorant, diuretic, anti-spasmodic, demulcent, anti-tussive, astringent, emollient, anti-inflammatory and anti-catarrhal.

Health Benefits

• Coltsfoot is a first-class expectorant. Its name presupposes its antitussive property, while it is also used as an emollient for sore throats. It is very effective for patients suffering from diseases such as laryngitis, bronchitis, sore throat and asthma, as well as for respiratory diseases such as chronic emphysema. Also coltsfoot is your best nicotine substitute herb.

• Coltsfoot is most commonly used to reduce inflammation. But the antioxidant properties of Coltsfoot work wonders on the skin too. It helps condition the skin, safeguards against microbial function and makes the skin look younger.

• At the same time, coltsfoot helps in the treatment of cystitis and urinary tract infection due to its diuretic property. It relieves the stinging that a patient with cystitis may feel, since its diuretic effect is immediate.

• Equally important is its healing and anti – bacterial action, as it helps heal wounds, purulent ulcers and joint pain.

• Cough is also given to women who suffer from dysmenorrhea due to the antispasmodic properties of the flavonoids and the essential oils it contains.

Brewing Infused Coltsfoot Flowers

• Place 1 – 2 teaspoons of dried flowers in a teapot.
• Pouring hot boiling water.
• Place on the lid to cover it
• Allow the mixture to steep for 10 to 15 minutes or overnight.
• Then strain the tea and serve.
• Add if you wish honey, milk or lemon wedge for flavor.
• Drink 1-3 cups of tea a day.

Side effects

• Although coltsfoot is generally considered safe to use medicinally, consuming more than the recommended dosage may cause liver toxicity.
• In any case you should consult with your healthcare doctor before using any herb especially if you’re taking other medications or having health problems.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and it is not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease.