Scientific Name/Common Name: Primula veris / Cowslip
Part(s) Used: Flower, leaf, root
Constituents/Active Ingredients: flavonoids, saponin glycosides, phenolic glycosides
Overview: Cowslip, otherwise known as Primula, is found in meadows and light undergrowth throughout the sunny regions of central and western Europe and Asia. Cowslip plants grow to about 20 cm tall have coarse and wrinkled leaves, and honey-scented, yellow flowers. Primula is primarily used for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and coughs, as it has decongestant and phlegm thinning and loosening properties. Primrose root was taken for whooping cough, acute breathing disorders, bone and joint pain and stiffness, and nerve pain. The German Commission E recommends one to two teaspoons of dried primrose flowers or one teaspoon of the plant's dried root as a respiratory remedy for laryngitis, bronchitis, colds, and coughs. The flowers and root are particularly recommended for dispelling catarrh of the respiratory tract—thick mucus that is difficult to move without a tea or other medicine.
Traditional Use/Benefits/Body Systems: For the respiratory system to deal with cough, bronchitis, stubborn build-up of phlegm. Anti-inflammatory for rheumatism and joint pains.
Clinical Studies/Scientific Research/References: Duke, J. 1997: The Green Pharmacy, The Ultimate Compendium of Natural Remedies from the World's Foremost Authority on Healing and Herbs. Pp. 119-120; 181; 373. Rodale Press. Wichtl, M and NG Bisset (Eds). 1994. Primulae flos - Primula flower. In Herbal Drugs and Phyto-pharmaceuticals. (English translation by Norman Grainger Bisset). CRC Press, Stuttgart, pp. 388-389. T. Bartram, FNIHM, Bartram’s Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, (New York, New York: Marlowe and Company),1998, p.132.
Disclaimer: This information in our Herbal Encyclopedia is intended only as a general reference for educational purposes. It is not a replacement for medical advice. This content does not provide dosage information, cautions/contraindications, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Please consult any relevant product labels for detailed information on use and with a medical practitioner for individual health advice.
