Coltsfoot Side Effects & Benefits: Liver Toxicity Concerns vs. Respiratory Relief

Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara), a perennial herb from Europe/Asia (now in Americas), treats coughs, bronchitis, and sore throats—but contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that accumulate in the liver.

Major Safety Concerns

• Pyrrolizidine alkaloids cause liver damage; herb not classified as safe in the US.
• Risk increases with dose/duration; moderate short-term use may be tolerated but medical supervision advised.
• German restrictions after infant death from nursing mother's coltsfoot tea.
• Pregnant/nursing women: strictly avoid.

Therapeutic Benefits

• Mucilage soothes sore throat, cough, bronchitis; heals mucous membranes.
• Expectorant—expels lung mucus.
• Anti-inflammatory—speeds lung infection recovery.
• External: crushed leaves on burns, sores, insect bites.

Preparation

Tea: 1 cup boiling water + dried leaves, steep 30+ minutes, drink hot. Up to 3 cups/day during treatment.

Safer Alternatives Exist

Many other herbal remedies offer respiratory relief without liver risk. Consult a herbal practitioner.