Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) vs Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

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. For at least 2,500 years, coltsfoot has been taken as a cough remedy and smoked to ease breathing. The Greek physician Dioscorides in the 1st century CE recommended it for dry coughs and 'for those who are unable to breathe except standing upright.'

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is an upright biennial reaching up to about 6½ ft (2 m), with distinctive gray-green, oval to lance-shaped leaves that are softly hairy, and tall spikes of bright yellow flowers. Leaves and flowers both contain saponins that assist in loosening mucus, making mullein especially beneficial for respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, dry coughs, and congestion. Mullein root is specifically valued for lower back pain and inflammation.

Safety & precautions

Do not use coltsfoot flowers. Do not take the leaves for more than 3-4 weeks at a time (or 6 weeks per year). Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which may be toxic to the liver in higher doses, though these are largely destroyed when boiled to make a decoction. Do not take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Not suitable for children under 6. Subject to legal restrictions in some countries. Use only as directed.

Seeds: Contain rotenone, which is poisonous - avoid using or ingesting them. Leaf & Flower: Considered safe in normal doses. Allergies: Rare but possible contact dermatitis from the leaves.

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