# Tussilago farfara

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/tussilago-farfara
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-31
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** European
**Also Known As:** coltsfoot, Farfarae Flos, coughwort, horsehoof, foalswort, bull's foot, donnhove, son-before-father, Tussilago farfara L., 款冬花 (kuandonghua), butterbur coltsfoot

## Overview

Tussilago farfara (coltsfoot) contains tussilagone and pyrrolizidine alkaloids as primary bioactive compounds, with tussilagone demonstrating anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting NF-κB signaling and suppressing [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s TNF-α and IL-6. Traditional use centers on respiratory conditions including cough and bronchitis, though robust human clinical trial data remain absent.

## Health Benefits

• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects: Tussilagone reduced TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB activation in mouse colitis models (PMID: 30142311) - preliminary evidence
• Respiratory support: Traditional use for cough, asthma, and bronchopneumonia, though clinical trials are lacking - traditional evidence only
• DNA protection: Polysaccharides protected against chemotherapy-induced DNA damage in preclinical studies (PMID: 30488215) - preliminary evidence
• [Antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant): Extracts demonstrated DPPH scavenging and enzyme inhibition (>70% urease inhibition) in vitro - preliminary evidence
• [Immunomodulat](/ingredients/condition/immune-support)ion: Polysaccharides reduced CD279 and CD274 expression in lymphocytes, potentially mitigating chemotherapy side effects - preliminary evidence

## Mechanism of Action

Tussilagone, a sesquiterpene enoate from Tussilago farfara, inhibits NF-κB activation and downstream transcription of [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s including TNF-α and IL-6, as demonstrated in murine colitis models (PMID: 30142311). The plant's polysaccharides and flavonoids may contribute to mucilaginous soothing effects on airway epithelium, potentially modulating mast cell degranulation and histamine release relevant to asthma pathophysiology. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) such as senkirkine and senecionine are hepatotoxic via CYP3A4-mediated bioactivation to pyrrolic ester metabolites that form DNA adducts and cause hepatic veno-occlusive disease.

## Clinical Summary

Evidence for Tussilago farfara is predominantly preclinical and traditional, with no large-scale randomized controlled trials in humans identified. Mouse colitis models demonstrate tussilagone reducing colonic NF-κB activation and [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) cytokine levels at tested doses, representing preliminary mechanistic evidence only. Traditional ethnopharmacological use across European and Asian systems supports its role in managing productive cough and bronchospasm, but these reports lack controlled methodology. The presence of hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids has shifted regulatory and research focus toward safety over efficacy validation, limiting modern clinical investigation.

## Nutritional Profile

Tussilago farfara (coltsfoot) contains a range of bioactive compounds with limited quantitative nutritional data. Leaves and flowers contain polysaccharides (mucilage), primarily consisting of inulin and water-soluble polysaccharides estimated at 8-15% dry weight, which contribute to its demulcent properties. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are present at concerning levels, including senkirkine and senecionine, reported at approximately 0.015-0.1% dry weight in leaves and higher concentrations in roots — these are hepatotoxic and restrict safe use. Flavonoids include rutin, hyperoside, kaempferol, and quercetin derivatives, with total flavonoid content estimated at 0.5-1.2% dry weight. Tussilagone (a sesquiterpene) is a key [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) bioactive compound isolated from flower buds. Tannins are present at approximately 5-10% dry weight. Zinc and calcium are detectable mineral constituents, though specific concentrations are not well-documented in nutritional databases. Vitamins are not significantly characterized. Chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid derivatives contribute [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). Carotenoids (beta-carotene precursors) are present in the yellow flowers. Bioavailability of polysaccharides is low due to limited digestibility; flavonoid bioavailability is moderate. Overall, this plant is not used as a dietary nutrient source and is classified as a medicinal herb with significant safety limitations due to PA content.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied human dosage ranges are available as human trials are absent. Traditional preparations include infusions and decoctions of flower buds. Preclinical studies used 5 μg/ml extract for in vitro cytoprotection. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Tussilago farfara contains hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), particularly senkirkine and senecionine, which are bioactivated by CYP3A4 to reactive pyrrole intermediates capable of forming DNA adducts, causing hepatic veno-occlusive disease and carrying potential carcinogenic risk with chronic exposure. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation, as PAs cross the placental barrier and are embryotoxic in animal studies. Concurrent use with other hepatotoxic substances, including acetaminophen, alcohol, and azole antifungals that inhibit CYP3A4 clearance, may amplify hepatotoxic risk. Several European regulatory bodies, including Germany's Commission E, have restricted or withdrawn approval for internal use; PA-free standardized preparations exist but require verified alkaloid-free certification before use.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses were identified in the available research. Evidence is limited to preclinical studies including mouse colitis models (PMID: 30142311), rabbit [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) models (PMID: 39442825), and in vitro studies on human adipose stem cells at 5 μg/ml (PMID: 39442825).

## Historical & Cultural Context

T. farfara has been used in traditional Chinese, European, and folk medicine for centuries to treat respiratory disorders such as cough, asthma, and bronchopneumonia. It has also been traditionally applied for allergies, liver disease, and gastrointestinal issues as an expectorant and antitussive.

## Synergistic Combinations

Licorice root, Thyme, Marshmallow root, Mullein, Ivy leaf

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is Tussilago farfara safe to take as a supplement?

Tussilago farfara poses significant safety concerns due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) content, specifically senkirkine and senecionine, which are metabolized by CYP3A4 into hepatotoxic pyrrolic intermediates. Germany's Commission E withdrew approval for internal use, and regulatory agencies recommend avoiding preparations that are not certified PA-free. Short-term topical or PA-free oral preparations may carry lower risk, but long-term internal use of standard preparations is not considered safe.

### What is tussilagone and what does it do?

Tussilagone is a sesquiterpene enoate compound isolated from Tussilago farfara that functions as the primary anti-inflammatory bioactive. It inhibits NF-κB nuclear translocation and reduces downstream expression of TNF-α and IL-6, as shown in a 2018 mouse colitis study (PMID: 30142311). These effects suggest potential applications in inflammatory conditions, though no human trials have confirmed these findings.

### What is Tussilago farfara traditionally used for?

Coltsfoot has been used for centuries in European and Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat productive cough, bronchitis, asthma, and bronchopneumonia, primarily through preparations of dried leaves and flower heads as teas or syrups. Its mucilaginous polysaccharide content is believed to coat and soothe inflamed airway epithelium, while flavonoids may contribute mild bronchodilatory effects. These uses are based on historical and ethnopharmacological evidence, not controlled clinical trials.

### Can Tussilago farfara interact with medications?

The pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Tussilago farfara are primarily metabolized through CYP3A4, meaning CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, clarithromycin, or grapefruit compounds can increase PA plasma levels and hepatotoxic risk by reducing clearance. Concurrent use with other hepatotoxic drugs including acetaminophen at high doses, statins, or alcohol significantly compounds liver injury risk. Individuals on anticoagulants should also exercise caution, as some flavonoid constituents may exert mild antiplatelet activity.

### Is Tussilago farfara safe during pregnancy?

Tussilago farfara is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content. Animal studies demonstrate PAs are embryotoxic and teratogenic, and they readily cross the placental barrier, posing direct risk to fetal hepatic tissue. No safe dosage threshold for use during pregnancy has been established, and all standard regulatory guidance advises complete avoidance during gestation and lactation.

### What does the research say about Tussilago farfara's effectiveness for respiratory health?

While Tussilago farfara has a long traditional history for treating cough, asthma, and bronchitis, robust clinical trials in humans are currently lacking. Most supporting evidence comes from traditional use rather than controlled studies, so efficacy claims remain preliminary. Animal and laboratory studies show promise for anti-inflammatory mechanisms, but human clinical data is needed to establish definitive respiratory benefits.

### How should Tussilago farfara be dosed, and are there recommended intake guidelines?

Dosing recommendations for Tussilago farfara vary depending on the product form (extract, tea, or dried herb) and individual formulations. WHO and EMA monographs provide guidance, but specific doses should follow product labeling or be determined by a qualified healthcare practitioner. Standardized extract doses typically differ from whole herb preparations, so consultation with a professional is advisable to determine appropriate intake for your needs.

### Who should avoid taking Tussilago farfara supplements?

Pregnant and nursing women should avoid Tussilago farfara due to insufficient safety data during these critical periods. Individuals with liver disease or those taking hepatotoxic medications should consult a healthcare provider, as some traditional plants in this category may affect liver function. Children and elderly individuals should also seek professional guidance before use, as safety and efficacy data in these populations remain limited.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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