Those suffering from asthma, catarrh and other lung troubles derive much benefit from smoking this Herbal Tobacco, the use of which does not entail any of the injurious effects of ordinary tobacco. A decoction is made of 1 OZ. of leaves, in 1 quart of water boiled down to a pint, sweetened with honey or liquorice, and taken in teacupful doses frequently. This is good for both colds and asthma. Coltsfoot tea is also made for the same purpose, and Coltsfoot Rock has long been a domestic remedy for coughs. The flower-stalks contain constituents similar to those of the leaves, and are directed by the British Pharmacopceia to be employed in the preparation of Syrup of Coltsfoot, which is much recommended for use in chronic bronchitis.
Comfrey abounds in the healing agents mucilage and allantoin.
A water extract of comfrey has been shown to stimulate production of protective substances known as prostaglandins in the stomachs of experimental animals, thus confirming comfrey s ancient reputation as a wound healer, inside and out. As the plant abounds in mucilage, it is frequently given whenever a mucilaginous medicine is required and has been used like Marshmallow for intestinal troubles. It is very similar in its emollient action to Marshmallow, but in many cases is even preferred to it and is an ingredient in a large number of herbal preparations. It forms a gentle remedy in cases of diarrhoea and dysentery. For its demulcent action it has long been employed domestically in lung troubles and also for quinsy and whooping-cough.