Coltsfoot
leaves and flowers are both expectorant and anti-spasmodic, an excellent
combination for treating coughs, though its anti-spasmodic qualities can be
useful in treating menstrual cramps. Generally, it relieves irritation of the
mucus membranes, especially where there is a copious flow of clear mucus as with
asthma, emphysema and some stages of the common cold.
The
plant does contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are known to be harmful to the
liver, but the amounts are small enough to be considered safe for short-term or
occasional use. The flowers
especially contain very little of the harmful alkaloids.
The German Commission E, while warning against the dangers of taking
excessive amounts of Coltsfoot, recommends it to relieve coughing and mucosal
inflammation of the respiratory tract.
It is a mild diuretic and high in zinc. For a regular infusion, use up to 1 tablespoon per cup of the
dried leaf, with a total daily dosage not exceeding 6 grams.
Of the tincture, use 2 – 4 ml or 30 – 60 drops every 3 to 4 hours.
CAUTION:
Coltsfoot contains harmful pyrrolizidine alkaloids in small amounts.
One should not exceed the recommended dosages nor should Coltsfoot be
taken for any longer than six weeks out of every year to avoid possible
accumulation of the alkaloids.
