The yellow-flowered coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara), whose leaves are shaped like the hoof of a colt, may be found growing in moist soils and alongside streams in Europe, Canada, and the northeastern United States. It is most conspicuous in early spring, when its dandelion-like flowers appear, and can quickly move to overrun a garden. Although all parts of the plant possess some medicinal qualities, it is the fragrant leaves that are used for teas and poultices. As a tea or tincture, coltsfoot is high in vitamin C, and is used to allay coughing; as an expectorant it helps to clean the respiratory tract. A cloth moistened in coltsfoot tea and applied to the throat or chest will relieve those areas of congestion. To prepare coltsfoot tea, steep 1 teaspoon leaves in 1 cup boiling water for 30 minutes. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid this herb; coltsfoot should not be used for extended periods of time.
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