Hound's tongue (Cynoglossum officinale) — what you need to know
Hound's tongue is a common wild plant that turns up in fields, roadsides and disturbed soil. People have used it in folk medicine, but modern evidence shows real risks. Before touching, tasting, or buying anything made from this plant, learn how to spot it and when to avoid it.
Where it grows and how to identify it
Hound's tongue is a biennial with rough, hairy leaves and clusters of small reddish-purple or brownish flowers in its first or second year. The leaves are long, slightly wrinkled, and feel coarse to the touch — that’s where the name comes from (they look a bit like a long tongue). It often spreads by burr-like seeds that stick to animals and clothing. If you forage, take clear photos of the leaves, flowers and seed burs to confirm ID before doing anything else.
Traditional uses — and the safer view
Old herbal books list hound's tongue for wounds, coughs, and as a diuretic. People sometimes assume “old use equals safe,” but this plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). Those compounds can damage the liver over time and may cause serious problems like veno-occlusive disease. That risk makes internal use questionable at best.
Topical use carries its own issues. Some people get contact dermatitis or allergic reactions from handling the plant. If you choose to use an over-the-counter product claiming hound's tongue, treat it like any unproven supplement: check the label, look for third-party testing, and be cautious.
If you take prescription drugs that affect the liver, or have liver disease, skip hound's tongue entirely. PAs can interact with other substances and raise your chance of liver injury. Pregnant and breastfeeding people should avoid it — PAs can harm a developing liver.
Animals are sensitive too. Livestock and pets that eat hound's tongue can become ill. Farmers find it useful to remove it from pastures and prevent burrs from spreading on clothing and equipment.
If you suspect PA poisoning, watch for tiredness, abdominal pain, dark urine, jaundice, or swelling. Those signs need medical attention. Tell your provider about any herbal products or wild plants you used — bring a photo if you have one.
Want a safer option? For wound care, clean the area and use proven antiseptics or dressings. For coughs or mild respiratory support, consider well-studied herbs like thyme or licorice under guidance, or stick to over-the-counter remedies recommended by your pharmacist or doctor.
Bottom line: hound's tongue has a history, but it carries liver-toxic compounds. Don’t eat or self-prescribe it. If you handle the plant, wear gloves, wash afterward, and contact a healthcare pro if you notice symptoms. When in doubt, ask a local pharmacist, herbalist with medical training, or your doctor.
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29.05.23
Alistair Mukondiwa
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