Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) vs Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)

Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)

About

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.

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) is a semi-evergreen shrub growing up to about 2 ft (60 cm), with narrow leaves and clusters of bright blue, two-lipped flowers.

Safety & precautions

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.

Essential Oil: Contains pinocamphone, which can be toxic and may trigger seizures. Should only be used under professional supervision. Pregnancy: Best avoided due to potential uterine stimulation. Mucous Membranes: Can be irritating if used excessively - especially during the acute phase of infections.

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.