Cudweed
NameCudweed
Scientific NameGnaphalium uliginosum
Common NamesCudweed, Marsh Cudweed, Low Cudweed, Filago uliginosa
Plant FamilyAsteraceae
Natural HabitatThis plant thrives in damp, disturbed ground such as ditches, pond margins, wet fields, and muddy paths. It prefers moist to wet, often sandy or silty soils.
Parts Usedwhole_plant,leaf,flower
Medicinal Actionsastringent,anti-inflammatory,demulcent,antimicrobial,expectorant
Traditional UsesTraditionally, Cudweed has been used for respiratory ailments like coughs, colds, sore throats, and bronchitis due to its demulcent and expectorant properties. It is also applied externally as a poultice for wounds, bruises, and skin inflammations, and internally for digestive complaints such as diarrhea due to its astringent action.
Active ConstituentsFlavonoids, Tannins, Sesquiterpenes, Essential oils
Preparation Methodsinfusion,tincture,poultice,powder
Contraindications & WarningsGenerally considered safe, but pregnant or nursing women should consult a healthcare professional before use. Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family may experience allergic reactions.
Cultivation NotesAn annual plant, Marsh Cudweed is easily grown from seed in moist, disturbed soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade and consistently damp conditions, readily self-seeding in suitable environments.
Raritycommon
Description
Gnaphalium uliginosum is a low-growing annual herb, typically 5-30 cm tall, with stems often branched from the base. Its leaves are spatulate to linear-oblong, covered in a whitish, woolly indumentum, and its small, yellowish-brown flower heads are clustered in the leaf axils and at the stem tips.
