Medical expert of the article
New publications
Preparations
Stepmother's leaves
Last reviewed: 03.07.2025
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Coltsfoot leaves are a herbal preparation with an expectorant effect.
Indications Mother and stepmother leaves
It is used in developing inflammatory processes in the respiratory system (during chronic bronchitis, tracheitis with laryngitis, and bronchopneumonia), against the background of which cough and difficulty in expectorating sputum are observed.
Release form
It is released in the form of crushed leaves of the plant in packages of 30, 35, 40 and 45 g, as well as 50, 60, 75 and 100 g.
[ 1 ]
Pharmacodynamics
Tincture of the leaves of the plant "coltsfoot" has an expectorant, and in addition to this, a slight anti-inflammatory effect. Organic acids with mucus, and in addition with saponins help to liquefy the viscous secretion secreted inside the upper part of the respiratory system, and in addition improve the process of sputum discharge.
The high level of mucus contained in its composition allows the medicine to have an enveloping effect on the mucous membranes in the larynx, throat and mouth, preventing the possibility of irritation.
[ 2 ]
Dosing and administration
About 10 g (which is 2 tablespoons) of raw material must be poured with 1 glass of boiling water (about 200 ml), then covered with a lid, and then kept in a water bath (about 15 minutes). Then the medicine is kept for about 45 minutes to cool, filtered and the remaining raw materials are squeezed out. The resulting tincture must be brought to a volume of 200 ml, using ordinary boiled water.
The medicine should be taken warm, in the amount of 2-3 tablespoons 2-3 times a day - before eating (approximately 1 hour).
The tincture should be shaken before use.
Use Mother and stepmother leaves during pregnancy
The medicine should not be prescribed to pregnant women.
Contraindications
Main contraindications:
- the presence of hypersensitivity to medicinal elements;
- lactation period;
- children under 12 years of age.
[ 3 ]
Side effects Mother and stepmother leaves
Storage conditions
The package with coltsfoot leaves should be kept in a dark place, where moisture does not penetrate, and also inaccessible to children. The finished tincture is best stored in the refrigerator.
Special instructions
Reviews
Coltsfoot leaves are considered a very useful folk remedy. They are used to treat many diseases. Reviews indicate that the tincture is very effective, has almost no contraindications or side effects.
Shelf life
Coltsfoot leaves can be used within 3 years from the date of preparation of the medicine. The finished tincture is good for a maximum of 2 days.
[ 5 ]
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Stepmother's leaves" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.