Houndstongue

A genus of about 55 species of biennials, with some annuals and perennials, widely distributed in temperate regions and tropical uplands. Cynoglossum is derived from the Greek kunoglosson, "dog's tongue", after the shape and texture of the leaves. The common name "rats-and-mice" refers to the odor of the foliage. Cynoglossum officinale is widely distributed in dry grassy places, especially near coasts. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, similar to those in Symphytum officinale (See, comfrey). Research has shown that these sunstances may be carcinogenic. For this reason, internal use of S. officinale is banned in some countries, hence the safety of C. officinale must also be questioned. Also in common with S. officinale, it contains allantoin, a highly effective healing substance; the leaves were traditionally used as a compress for insect bites, and other minor injuries. Leaf extract of C. officinale and root extracts of S. officinale are combined in aa German preparation for the external treatment of leg ulcers.

Erect biennial with elliptic-oblong, hairy, gray-green leaves, 5-12cm (2-5in) long. Maroon, bell-shaped flowers, 6mm (¼in) across, appear iin summer followed by fruits covered in fine hooked spines.


Common Name:
Houndstongue
Other Names:
Rats-and-mice
Botanical Name:
Cynoglossum officinale
Genus:
Cynoglossum
Family:
Boraginaceae
Native Location:
C Europe, S and C Russia, C Asia
Cultivation:
Moist, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.
Propagation:
By seed sown in spring or autumn
Harvest:
Flowering plants and leaves are collected in early summer and dried for use in infusions. Roots are lifted in autumn and dried for use in decoctions.
Warning:
Skin irritant and allergen.
This herb is subject to legal restrictions in some countries.
Height:
80cm-1m (32-36in)
Width:
30-50cm (12-20in)
Hardiness:
Z4-9
Parts Used:
Whole plant, leaves, roots.
Properties:
A painkilling herb that soothes inflamed tissues and speeds healing.
Medicinal Uses:
Formerly used internally for coughs and diarrhea. Now mostly externally for minor injuries, bites, and leg ulcers, and as a suppository for hemorrhoids. Not prescribed for children or women during lactation.
Bibliography:
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. Pp 188-189