COWSLIP
Primula veris
Common name: Cowslip
Latin name: Primula veris, Primula officinalis
Other names: Fairy Cup, Keyflower, Key of Heaven, Paigle
Family: Primulaceae
Habitat: Cowslip is native to temperate Europe and Asia. It can be found on open fields, meadows, coastal dunes and cliff tops.
Description: Cowslip is a perennial plant. It has a hairy, oblong to oval leaves, green in color. Flower stalk rises from the centre of the rosette of leaves, topped with a cluster of yellow flowers. Flowering occurs from May to June.
Parts used: Root, leaves, flowers.
Useful components: Saponins, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, volatile oil.
Medicinal use: The plant has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and expectorant properties. It is commonly used in cases of coughs, bronchitis, insomnia, hedaches, neuralgia and tremors. Cowslip root stimulates liquid mucus, and has excellent results in treatments of bronchitis and its symptoms. Flowers are considered to have mild sedative properties. Tea made from flowers is useful in treatment of restlessness, stress related problems and insomnia.
Safety: Some herbs could react with certain medication. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before consumption of any herb.