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Post by Onyxaeon on Nov 26, 2008 15:12:31 GMT -5
Tussilago grows to roughly 30cm. The plant is commonly known as colt's foot, though tussilago is the Genus name. It is a perennial with creeping rhizomes, and dull yellow flowers in early spring that turn into a dandelion-like seed head. Tender leaves are eaten in soups and salads. It is used to treat coughs, skin ulcers, and sores. The flowers reduce phlegm, inflammation, and stimulate immune cells. All parts of plant contain mucilage, good for coughs and bronchitis. Decoct leaves for colds, flu, and asthma.
Warnings: Use with caution externally- it contains small amounts of potentially damaging alkaloids, which research suggests are destroyed when the plant is boiled.
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