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Primula veris/P. officinalis
(Primulaceae)
COWSLIP, PAIGLE, FAIRY CUPS, ARTHRITICA
The dried petals of cowslip,
which flowers in early spring, have long been used medicinally in the herb's
native northern Europe. Cowslip is given by herbalists for excitability,
insomnia, bronchitis, and whooping cough.
According to folklore, cowslips first grew from the ground where
St Peter dropped his keys and this is recorded in the French, German, and old English names (clef de
Saint Pierre, schlusselblumen, and key of heaven respectively). The name cowslip, on the other hand,
derives from the old English name, cowslop, because the plant used to grow best in meadows frequented by herds of cows.
It was given in the middle ages to relieve headaches and insomnia. Native to northern Europe,
it can be found on alkaline soils but it is becoming rare. Cowslips are perennial with a rosette of oval leaves and large yellow flowers in early spring.
PARTS USED
Dried petals.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Saponin glycosides based on
triterpene aglycones, including primulic acid, primulaveroside, and primveroside; volatile oil; tannins;
flavonoids, including luteolin, apigenin, kaempferol, and quercetin; phenolic glycosides.
ACTIONS
Stimulating expectorant; sedative; reduces muscle tension and spasm.
MEDICINAL USE
Given to relieve excitability and
insomnia, bronchitis, and whooping cough.
PREPARATIONS
Infusion, tincture.
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