The
leaves and root of Hound’s Tongue have many similar constituents to Comfrey,
including the cell proliferant allantoin. Once
a popular remedy with uses similar to those of Comfrey, for treating wounds and
injuries, it has not been in use much in the last century. It was once much used
in the treatment of cancers and other tumours. It has been used to treat pain
and digestive disorders including diarrhoea and dysentery, but its best-known
use is as a tea for coughs and sore throat, especially where the throat is raw
and dry. The tea is an effective
treatment for haemorrhoids, as is a salve made from the leaves. It is also considered and effective remedy for insomnia,
taken nightly as a tea or tincture.
CAUTION:
Besides allantoin Hounds Tongue contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are
known liver toxins.
The toxic effect can be cumulative over time and has caused countless
deaths in cattle and horses, though sheep can eat it freely.
Although its actual toxicity to humans is unclear, it is not recommended
for internal consumption.
Narcotic effects may result from large dosages.
Hound’s
Tongue contains the alkaloids cynoglossine and consolidin, which are used
medicinally to relieve pain. They depress the central nervous system and are
potentially carcinogenic.
