Primula veris

Cowslip

Primulaceae

Evidence: LimitedNone EuropeSleep supportRespiratory supportCalm

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Identity

Common Name: Cowslip
Scientific Name: Primula veris
Botanical Family: Primulaceae
Native Region: Europe and western Asia
Plant Parts Used: Flower, Root
Caffeine Level: None

A low perennial with a rosette of wrinkled leaves and umbels of nodding, fragrant yellow flowers with orange throat markings.

Historical Background

Cowslip has been gathered for centuries in European folk medicine and was a common spring tea for soothing coughs and calming nerves. It was woven into May Day traditions.

Earliest recorded uses: Noted in medieval European herbals and by herbalists such as John Gerard and Nicholas Culpeper.

Cultural significance: Associated with spring festivals, cowslips were fermented into 'cowslip wine' and used in country remedies.

Traditional preparations:

Flower infusion
Root decoction (stronger, expectorant)

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

European folk medicine

Used as a mild sedative, expectorant, and antispasmodic.

Culinary

Flowers brewed into wine and used to flavor country drinks.

Flavor & Aroma

Mildly sweetFloralHoneyed

Aroma: Delicate, sweetly floral, apricot-like

Tea Information

Suitable for Tea

Yes

Preparation Methods

Steep 1 to 2 grams of dried flowers in freshly boiled water for 8 minutes

Steeping Temperature

90°C (194°F)

Steeping Time

6 to 9 minutes

Recommended Vessel

Glass teapot to showcase blossoms

Blends Well With

Linden, Chamomile, Lemon balm, Honey

90°C (194°F) 6 to 9 minutes

Safety & Cautions

Contraindications

Use cautiously in aspirin sensitivity; avoid the root in pregnancy.

Drug Interactions

Theoretical interaction with anticoagulants due to salicylate content in some parts.

Pregnancy

Flowers in moderate amounts likely acceptable; avoid the root.

Breastfeeding

Use in moderation; safety of root not established.

Children

Mild flower tea is traditionally used for children in small amounts; consult a professional.

Allergies

Possible in those sensitive to Primulaceae.

Known Adverse Effects

Generally well tolerated; root may cause gastric upset in excess.

Research Summary

Evidence Level: Limited

Contains saponins and flavonoids with traditional expectorant activity; modern clinical evidence is scarce.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources

EMA · Primulae flos monograph (2011)
German Commission E · Primula veris (1990)

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