coltsfoot

The name already warns about the therapeutic power of this plant, known for thousands of years for being one of the best natural remedies to end a cough.

The term coltsfoot derives from the Latin word tusis for cough and agere for throwing or persecuting in allusion to its aforementioned antitussive power. In the past, the leaves of this plant were smoked to cure dry and persistent coughs, as well as to treat asthma.

coltsfoot (coltsfoot) is an underground rhizome from which stems grow up to 30 cm tall. The leaves are perennial, large and long-stalked. The plant stands out for the presence of some stems covered in scales that bloom at the beginning of spring displaying beautiful yellow flowers.

The leaves do not appear until after flowering. The coltsfoot grows on moist, clayey soils and along forest and roadsides.

Medicinal properties

The coltsfoot contains abundant mucilagetannins, inulin, flavonoids and alkaloids that give it its proven antitussive and expectorant action. It is an effective protector of the mucous membranes, which makes this plant one of the most valuable remedies to combat coughs, relieve respiratory colds and clear the airways, while preventing inflammation of the pharynx, larynx, tonsils and bronchi. Coltsfoot acts with proven efficacy against those persistent and irritating coughs how hard it is to make it disappearwhile helps lower body temperature. For its strength to clean the bronchi and regenerate the respiratory mucosa It is ideal for ex-smokers and has been recommended in tobacco detoxification cures. The coltsfoot leaves are also indicated in cases of asthma and certain dental problems. But it is advised not to prolong its ingestion too much.

herbal formulas

Tisane to purify the bronchi: Combine 15 g of coltsfoot, lungwort, Iceland lichen, horehound and fir shoots, placing a tablespoon of the mixture for every 1/4 liter of water.How to prepare it: Boil for 2 minutes and let stand covered for 10 more minutes. A very hot cup should be taken every four hours. To improve the flavor, a teaspoon of honey can be added. infusion against cough: An excellent alternative against cough is the herbal tea that is made by mixing 20 g of coltsfoot flowers with the same amount of other equally expectorant herbs: Scots pine, maidenhair and eucalyptus, plus the digestive support of fennel.How to prepare it: Combine a tablespoon of the mixture for each cup and let it boil for 3 minutes. The optimal dose is three cups a day, after meals, and preferably very hot. Those who wish can improve its flavor by adding a splash of lemon juice. To lower body temperature: The herbal tea that is prepared by combining 15 g of coltsfoot, poppy, gentian and elderberry and arranging a tablespoon of the mixture for each cup of water is very effective.How to prepare it: Boil for 3 minutes and infuse for a quarter of an hour. After that time, strain and add lemon juice or honey to hide its bitter taste.

Jordi Cebrian. Advisor: Trini Ferrán, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”