Coltsfoot Flowers

Benefits of Coltsfoot Flowers in Tea

Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) flowers have a long tradition in herbal medicine, especially as a tea for respiratory and inflammatory conditions. Here are the main evidence-backed and traditional benefits:

1. Soothes Cough and Respiratory Tract

  • Coltsfoot tea is widely used as a natural remedy for dry, tickly, or persistent coughs, bronchitis, asthma, laryngitis, and sore throats256. Its mucilage content coats and soothes irritated mucous membranes in the throat and airways, providing relief from coughing and inflammation.

2. Expectorant and Mucus Relief

  • The mucilage and other compounds in coltsfoot help loosen and expel phlegm, making it easier to clear congested lungs and sinuses. This expectorant action is beneficial for bronchial congestion and chronic lung conditions, including COPD and asthma.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

  • Coltsfoot contains flavonoids and polysaccharides with anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and irritation in the respiratory tract and digestive system. This can be helpful for conditions like bronchitis, tracheitis, and colitis.

4. Immune-Stimulating and Antiseptic Properties

  • The tea provides immune support due to its vitamins, minerals, and bioactive substances, and its antiseptic effects can help fight respiratory and urinary tract infections.

5. Digestive Tract Support

  • Coltsfoot tea's mucilage also soothes the digestive tract, protecting the stomach lining and aiding in the management of gastritis, ulcers, and colitis. It may also act as a mild laxative, helping with constipation.

6. Urinary Tract and Diuretic Effects

  • Its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties can support urinary tract health, help reduce oedema, and may aid in preventing kidney and bladder stones.

7. Antioxidant and Antibacterial Actions

  • Coltsfoot tea contains antioxidants and has mild antibacterial effects, supporting general wellness and recovery from infections.

Safety Note:
Coltsfoot contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which can be toxic to the liver if consumed in large amounts or over long periods. Occasional, moderate use is generally considered low risk for most adults, but it should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women, infants, and people with liver conditions. Always consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for long-term or high-dose consumption.

  1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coltsfoot
  2. https://www.indigo-herbs.co.uk/natural-health-guide/benefits/coltsfoot
  3. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-730/coltsfoot
  4. https://www.euphoricherbals.com/blogs/blog/benefits-of-coltsfoot
  5. https://violapharm.com/en/coltsfoot-herb-medicinal-properties-and-uses
  6. https://www.herbalreality.com/herb/coltsfoot/
  7. https://www.naturadoriente.com/en/herbal-teas-for-lungs/1335-coltsfoot-cutting-leaves-herbal-tea.html
  8. https://www.goodsixty.co.uk/retailers/480/retailers/leeds/products/35721-coltsfoot-tea