Coltsfoot

Organs/Systems It Supports:

• Respiratory system: lungs, bronchial tubes, sinuses
• Mucosal membranes: soothing action
• Immune system: mild support

Actions:

• Expectorant
• Demulcent
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antitussive (cough-relieving)
• Mild antimicrobial
• Astringent

Traditionally used for:

• Dry, irritating, or persistent coughs
• Bronchitis and asthma
• Sore throats and hoarseness
• Chest colds and congestion
• Upper respiratory catarrh
• Laryngitis – especially helpful for singers and speakers

The soothing mucilage in Coltsfoot coats irritated tissues, while its gentle expectorant qualities help clear mucus from the lungs.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Liver disorders
• Infants and young children
• Caution with prescription liver medications

• Rare but potential liver toxicity with prolonged, unsupervised use.
• Allergic reactions possible in sensitive individuals (Asteraceae family).

🌿 Important Note:

Whenever using herbs like Coltsfoot that contain PAs, it’s best to:

• Use them in blended formulas
• Seek PA-free extracts if available
• Follow up with liver-supporting herbs such as milk thistle or schisandra berry

Tincture (1:5 at 40% alcohol):

• Adults: 1–2 ml, up to 3x daily, for no more than 7–10 consecutive days.

Coltsfoot has a slightly bitter, earthy, and astringent taste with mucilaginous undertones when prepared as a tea.

Coltsfoot contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs… a group of plant toxins, known to be toxic to the liver) in small amounts—compounds that can be toxic to the liver in high or prolonged doses. For this reason, it’s best used short term or in formulas where PAs have been removed.

Cautions & Warnings:

• Not for long-term use.
• Avoid with a history of liver disease or if using other hepatotoxic substances.
• Monitor use in small children or elderly individuals.