Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)
All of our herbs come from certified organic sources or trusted wildcrafters.
ALSO KNOWN AS: Flos Farfarae, Kuan dong hua
PLANT FAMILY: Daisy family Asteraceae
PART(S) USED: Flower and leaves
OVERVIEW: Native to Europe and parts of Asia, Coltsfoot is an herbaceous perennial that grows in colonies which spread through its rhizomatous root system. A member of the Asteraceae family, coltsfoot has yellow flowers, and leaves the resemble a horse’s hoof. It has a long history of use in traditional European herbalism and was often surrounded in folklore. Coltsfoot herb is commonly infused for use in topical applications.
The name "tussilago" is derived from the Latin tussis, which means to cough, and ago, which means to cast or to act on. It has had uses in traditional medicine, but the discovery of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the plant has resulted in liver health concerns. Therefore, only topical use is suggested.
TRADITIONAL USES: Coltsfoot herb is commonly infused for use in topical applications.
PRECAUTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS:
- Use at your own risk.
- Health Canada advises that this herb not be used internally.
- Do not apply to broken or abraded skin
- Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have an existing medical condition, have allergies, or are on any medications.
WARNING: This information is for educational purposes only, has not been evaluated by Health Canada, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.