What is lungwort?
Longwort is a perennial herbs. It is one of the first plants to flower in early spring. The stem grows about 20 cm high and bears hairy, alternate, oval leaves. Typical for lungwort are the white spots on the leaves. The small tubular flowers grow in small clusters. The flowers are red but turn to light purple as they mature.
Parts used
Only the leaves of the lungwort plant are used.
PhytochemicalsThese are typical phytochemicals found in lungwort: catecholtannins, silicic acid, allantoin,
saponins,
flavonoids,
quercetin,
kaempferol,
tannic acid.
Benefits of lungwort
Lungwort was traditionally used as a remedy against lung diseases, such as tuberculosis, asthma and coughs. Lungwort contains antibiotics which act against bacteria responsible for chest infections. Lungwort is also used to treat gastrointestinal and kidney problems.
The allantoin may be responsible for the wound healing properties. Lungwort is used externally to treat eczema, haemorrhoids, wounds and burns.
Today it is known that lungwort contains toxic pyrrolizidin alkaloids, so its internal use without medical supervision is not recommended.
Other facts
Lungwort originates from Central Europe. During the Middle Ages, lungwort was considered as dangerous because the grey spots on the lungwort leaves were associated with an infected lung.
Other names
Spotted lungwort , Jerusalem cowslip, oak lungs, lung moss, spotted comfrey, oak lungs
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