Radix primulae

Primulae radix contain 5 to 12% triterpene saponins (beta-amyrin basic structure); the main saponin in the cowslip (approx. 90%) is primulic acid with the genuine aglycone protoprimulagenin A and the corresponding glycosides primulasaponins 1 and 2. Glycosides of anagalligenin and priverogenin B were also found (sugar chains mostly consist of glucose, galactose, rhamnose and glucuronic acid). The drug also contains phenolic glycosides: primverine and primulaverine are the main components.

HMPC monograph: Traditional-use: expectorant for coughs due to colds

ESCOP mon ograph: for productive cough and catarrh of the airways, as well as chronic bronchitis

Commission e-monograph: catarrhs of the airways

Empirical medicine: Colds with viscous mucus(BfArM approval)

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.

Effects: secretion; expectorant.

Both Primulae radxi and Primulae flos (flowers and the root) are used for the same applications. Primulae radix is however better documented.

Catarrh of the airways(Commission E); internally in productive cough, chronic bronchitis, catarrh of the airways (ESCOP)

Primulae radix is contained in many cold remedies and expectorants. Often the drug is combined with ribwort, horseradish, liquorice, thyme, ivy, bibernelle, marshmallow, sundew, calamus, fennel, elderberry and yellow gentian. The daily dose of the drug is 0.5-1.5g.

Monotherapeutically Primulae radix is mostly used in the form of a tincture or as a tea infusion. Preparation: about 0.5 g of the powdered drug is prepared with cold water and then heated to boiling point. Then leave to stand for 5 minutes and strain. Dosage: drink one cup every 3 hours.

Stomach problems and nausea may occur sporadically.

Interactions with other agents are not known.

Hypersensitivity to the active substances, bronchial asthma, acute obstructive laryngitis in the medical history of children,

The fixed combination primrose root+marshmallow root+anise consists of:

• Primula radix (Primrose root)
• Althaeae radix (marshmallow root)
• Anisi fructus (Aniseed)

has a slightly antispasmodic, soothing, antibacterial and secretolytic effect. In addition, it inhibits mucociliary activity, has expectorant effects and is used for a mild catarrh of the upper respiratory tract and for a dry irritable cough.

Harvesting time and location of the plants as well as storage and processing of the drug play an essential role with regard to the phenol glycoside content. The action of the enzyme primverase produces 5-methoxymethylsalicylic acid and other odor-determining components.

1. Wenigmann M. (2017) Phytotherapy medicinal drugs, phytopharmaceuticals, application. Urban & Fischer, pp. 173-174
2. https://arzneipflanzenlexikon.info/primel.php