Coltsfoot Extract
Species name: Tussilago farfara; Asterceae or compositae, Sunflower family
Also known as: Colt's Foot, Coughwort
What is Coltsfoot Extract? Coltsfoot originated in Europe, England, Asia and North Africa. It can be found in North America as well.
Since the days of ancient Greece and Rome, coltsfoot has been used to relieve all types of bronchial congestion, and is one of the best known natural remedies for whooping cough.
In European countries (routinely used) the herb is most often taken as an infusion, tincture (with a bit of honey as the taste is somewhat bitter) or used topically.
The constituents of coltsfoot are mucilage, the alkaloid pyrolizidine, saponins and tannin (especially in the leaf) which are known for their ability to act as an expectorant, anti-spasmodic, antitussive, demulcent, diuretic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, emollient, antiscrofulous and anti-catarrhal.
Coltsfoot can provide our body with nutrients such as zinc, potassium, copper, manganese, calcium, sulfur, iron and vitamins A, B, C and P.
This herb has been used internally as a cough remedy for centuries in Chinese medicine.
To apply externally to sores, rashes, minor injuries and painful joints, a poultice of crushed leaves or extract can be made.
Home Remedies using Coltsfoot Extract:
Benefits of Coltsfoot Extract:
One of the main topical uses of coltsfoot extract is to help relieve inflammation.
This with its antioxidant properties can act as a skin-conditioning agent and reduce oxidative stress on the skin.
It acts to promote a younger looking skin as it guards against microbial infection.
It is included in rejuvenating toners for these highly sought after properties.
For these reasons and as it is a good antibacterial it is effective for all manners of wounds, cuts, insect bites or other skin problems including scars.
Its large content of mucilage is what most of its medicinal benefit is all about having and it makes a long-lasting effect on both, oily or dry dandruff.
Coltsfoot flower essence and/or extracts is a great remedy against emotional conditions and can stimulate positive energy.
Regular consumption, but within the recommended limits, of coltsfoot tea enhances better immunity as well as lowering chances of diseases such as gastritis, diarrhea, irritable bowels syndrome (IBS) and colitis.
Because its antimicrobial properties are quite good coltsfoot extract and/or tea can be used to treat urinary infections, particularly cystitis.
The leaves and stems of the mature plant are the parts most used for asthma, bronchitis, colds, emphysema, coughs, congestion, chest ailments and sinus problems.
It is also a good herb to use when you want to quit smoking.
Side effects of Coltsfoot Extract:
Studies have concluded that the amount of pyrrolizidine alkalois present in this botanical is worth our caution.
The frequent use of coltsfoot may contribute to the toxic state of the liver or encourage some forms of cancer.
Pregnant women, children and infants should not use coltsfoot.
