Tussilago (Noun)
Meaning
Genus of low creeping yellow-flowered perennial herbs of north temperate regions: coltsfoots; in some classifications includes species often placed in other genera especially Homogyne and Petasites.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- Tussilago farfara has been used as an expectorant for centuries by herbalists and was considered sacred by the ancient Romans for its supposed medicinal properties.
- Various species of Tussilago are susceptible to infection by the rust fungus Puccinia poarum which produces bright yellow spores.
- The young leaves and flowers of Tussilago are edible and were eaten raw in salads or made into a bitter tea.
- Preliminary research suggests that extracts from Tussilago may have potential in the treatment of certain types of cancer.
- In traditional medicine Tussilago has been used to treat respiratory issues such as bronchitis and asthma due to its expectorant properties.