Herbs Guide

Coltsfoot

Family Name: Asteraceae

Botanical Name(s): Tussilago Farfara L.

Popular Name(s): Coughwort, Hallfoot, Bullsfoot

Parts Used: Leaves, flowers and root

Habitat: Coltsfoot grows in England and Italy. It is also found in Asia, North America and in South America

Description: Coltsfoot is a perennial herbaceous plant and it spreads by seeds and rhizomes. At the early stages, the herb consists of a single peduncle with numerous reddish bracts and whitish hairs and a terminal, composite yellow flower. The other shoots which appear later develop leaves. The seeds possess a tuft of silky hairs. The root is small and white in colour.

Uses: Coltsfoot is used as a demulcent, expectorant and tonic. It is a popular remedy for cough and beneficial to lungs. A decoction of Coltsfoot leaves and water is good for both colds and asthma. Coltsfoot tea is also made for the same purpose.