Primula flos

Dried flowers of cowslip used phytotherapeutically.

HMPC monograph: Traditional-use: expectorant for coughs caused by colds

ESCOP monograph: for productive coughs and catarrhs of the airways, as well as chronic bronchitis

Commission e-monograph: Catarrh of the airways

The blossom extract contains 2% saponins (primula acid A), carotenoids, phenol glycosides, flavones, kaemperol, quercetin.

The triterpene saponins have an irritant effect on the stomach lining. This effect is said to stimulate the bronchial mucosa via nerve fibres to produce more mucus. This dilutes the secretion and makes it easier to cough up.

Primulae radix and Primulae flos are used for the same applications. The root (Primulae radix) is much better documented. The ESCOP defines applications for "productive coughing and catarrh of the airways as well as chronic bronchitis".

Tea preparation: About 1.5 g (about 1 teaspoon) of the cut and crushed drug is poured over a cup of boiling water and sieved after 10 to 15 minutes. As a cough expectorant, drink one cup every 3 hours.

Stomach problems and nausea may occur sporadically.

Due to lack of experience no use in children <12 years hypersensitivity to the active substance, bronchial asthma , acute obstructive laryngitis in the history of children,

Fixed commercial preparations are:

Gentianae radix (gentian root) +

Verbenae herba (verbena )+

Herba Rumicis acetosae (sorrel) +

Sambuci flos (elderflower) +

Primulae flos (primula flowers with calyx)

= Sinupret® Juice Adults: 7,0-7,0-7,0ml; Children: 2-5.Lj: 2,1-2,1-2,1ml

1. https://arzneipflanzenlexikon.info/primel.php