coltsfoot root

Coltsfoot root is the dried rhizome of the perennial herbaceous plant *Tussilago farfara*, a member of the Asteraceae family. Historically, it has been employed in traditional herbal medicine as an antitussive and expectorant to treat respiratory conditions such as chronic cough, bronchitis, and asthma. Its therapeutic profile is primarily attributed to its high mucilage content, which provides a demulcent effect by soothing irritated mucous membranes, and flavonoids that may offer mild anti-inflammatory activity. However, the root naturally contains unsaturated pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), including senkirkine and senecionine, which are known to be hepatotoxic and carcinogenic. Consequently, the medicinal use of coltsfoot root is strictly regulated or discouraged in many jurisdictions unless certified PA-free varieties are used. It is typically available as a botanical extract or as part of herbal tea formulations.

Other names

Tussilago farfara rootFarfarae radixcoughwort root