Coltsfoot As Alternative Medicine

Coltsfoot As Alternative Medicine

For centuries coltsfoot has been a favorite alternative medicine for chest problems such as bronchitis, coughs, colds, pleurisy and asthma. It is also effective for throat irritation, hoarseness, sore throat and laryngitis.

Coltsfoot is usually taken as a tea. It is more potent when combined with thyme, wild cherry and liquorice. Very often a decoction is made from coltsfoot, marshmallow and horehound as a treatment for coughs. You can make a tea by adding 5 to 10 grams of the leaf or flower to 250ml of boiling water and steep for 10 to 20 minutes.

This herb must not be taken longer than 4 weeks at one time. It is believed that coltsfoot can increase the chance of liver tumors and damage due to the toxicity potential of the herb. Pregnant or nursing women and young children should refrain from taking this herbal remedy. Studies show that coltsfoot does not interact with any prescription drugs.

In Europe coltsfoot remains as one of the most used alternative medicine for respiratory and chest problems.