Primulaceae
Cowslip
Primula veris
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Europe, Western Asia
Also known as: Common Cowslip, Paigle, Key Flower, Our Lady's Keys
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Parts Used
FlowerRoot
Therapeutic Uses
Bronchitis, productive cough, upper respiratory catarrh (root expectorant), insomnia and anxiety (flower), rheumatic pain, sinusitis. Root Commission E approved for catarrh.
Herbal Actions
Expectorant (root), sedative (flower), anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antispasmodic
Active Constituents
Root: saponins (primeveraside, primulagenin A), phenolic glycosides. Flower: flavonoids (quercetin, rutin), essential oil, carotenoids
Preparation Methods
☕ Herbal Tea🏺 Tincture🍯 Syrup
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | Flower: 2 tsp per 250ml, steep 10 min, 2–3x daily. Root: 0.5 tsp simmered 15 min |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 40% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Flower for sedation and anxiety (gentle). Root for respiratory expectorant. Good children's cough syrup ingredient. Combine with thyme for productive cough. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Avoid root in pregnancy (saponins). Primrose family allergy. Otherwise safe.
Side Effects: Allergic contact dermatitis (primula sensitization). GI upset at high doses of root saponins.