Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Record

Cynoglossum officinale

Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.

Enhanced precautions for this plant: Hound's tongue contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids known to be toxic to the liver; internal use is strongly discouraged and must be avoided without the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. Absolutely contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as in children, due to documented hepatotoxic risk. Prolonged external use or application on broken skin is not without risk: consult an herbalist or physician before any application, especially if repeated. Never confuse with other plants with similar leaves; in case of doubt about identification, refrain from any use.

Poultice — Fresh leaves

Poultice of bruised leaves

Fresh leaves are lightly bruised or crushed and then applied directly to the affected area, sometimes held in place with a clean cloth. This traditional preparation was renewed once or twice a day, strictly for external use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Decoction — Dried root

Root decoction for external use

The dried, cut root is gently decocted in water for a few minutes, then the cooled liquid was formerly used in compresses on the skin. This preparation must under no circumstances be consumed internally and requires professional advice before use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Hound's tongue was once found wild in wastelands, embankments, and roadsides of Europe; today, wild harvesting is not recommended and it is rarely found in herbal shops due to its known toxicity.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

Leaf harvesting was traditionally done in spring and early summer, while the root was dug up in autumn, after the plant's flowering.

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