Herb Weavers Journal #115 - 21st April 2025

Coltsfoot

This lovely little plant looks much like a dandelion with a bright yellow many petalled head, what gives it away is the shape of the leaves, which are more horses hoof shaped than long and tall like the dandelion.

The leaf, flower and root can all be consumed.

Used for treatment of asthma, coughs & colds and other respiratory issues. Also works as a painkiller and anti inflammatory. You can gargle with Coltsfoot water to help a sore throat too.

This plant does contain hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids, so it is unsafe for anybody with liver or lung issues

who are being prescribed medication. If purchasing from a herbal shop, ensure the container states it is HPA free. In Europe the 5 of HPA should be written on the container if it isn’t 100% free.

If all else fails, get to the local old fashioned sweet shop and buy a Coltsfoot Stick to suck on.