The Tussilago farfara is a wild flowering plant native to Eurasia that was introduced to the Western Hemisphere by settlers over the past 3-4 centuries. More commonly known as Coltsfoot (leaf of this plant resembles a young horse's hoof), Tussilago farfara looks a great deal like the common dandelion, but grows quite differently. Like many
Traditionally, Coltsfoot leaf has been used to treat numerous respiratory ailments, ranging from bronchitis to emphysema. Amazingly, the dried Coltsfoot leaf was actually "smoked" - in other words, this medicinal herb was put in a pipe from which patients would draw the fumes into their lungs. Needless to say, this method of ingesting Coltsfoot leaf did more harm than good; however, dried Coltsfoot leaf is still used in herbal smoking blends as a tobacco substitute.
Other reported uses of Tussilago farfara involved crushing the flowers and making a poultice that is applied to the skin. The more common use of this natural herb remains that of treating respiratory ailments, however.
Trained herbalists note that Coltsfoot leaf contains mucilage, tannins and zinc, which are said to relieve inflammation and cough. However, the alkaloid substances naturally occurring in the organic herb means that in large doses, Tussilago farfara can be potentially poisonous; people with a history of liver disorders should avoid Coltsfoot leaf.
That said, trained herbalists commonly use cut Coltsfoot leaf in its dried form, mixing it with other
dried herbs such as
horehound, to relieve cough associated with various respiratory illnesses. The compound is ideally crushed into a fine powder and taken in capsule form with water.
It is worth noting that Germany's Commission E on Phytotherapy has approved the use of Coltsfoot leaf for treating the symptoms of catarrh as well as the accompanying inflammation. Those who
buy organic bulk herbs are nonetheless well advised to consult with a trained herbalist or naturopathic doctor before using Coltsfoot leaf.
