Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri) vs Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)

Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri)

Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)

About

Bacopa, also known as Water Hyssop or Brahmi, is a creeping succulent perennial that can grow to about 20 inches. It features spatula-shaped fleshy leaves and pale blue or white flowers on slender stalks. It thrives in marshlands and along the edges of mangrove swamps in warmer temperate and tropical climates, especially southern Asia, where it forms dense mats on mudflats.

Coltsfoot is a perennial herb growing to 12 inches with flowering stems covered in purple scales, yellow-gold flowers, and heart-shaped leaves. Indigenous to Europe and northern Asia and naturalized in North America, it is commonly found along roadsides, on verges, and in open areas. The flowers are gathered in late winter, and the leaves in summer.

Safety & precautions

Not recommended for individuals with hyperthyroidism, as bacopa may influence thyroid function. Ask a pharmacist before combining it with any prescription medicine. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation unless under professional guidance.

Liver toxicity: Coltsfoot contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids. LiverTox describes these compounds as able to cause sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, a serious form of liver injury, and in 2001 the U.S. FDA advised that supplements containing comfrey or other plants that supply these alkaloids be removed from the market. Do not take coltsfoot by mouth. Do not use it during pregnancy, when breastfeeding, or for children. Subject to legal restrictions in some countries.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.