Yellow Toadflax, Butter and eggs

Linaria vulgaris

Physical Characteristics

Linaria vulgaris is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to October, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to the Pyrenees, Greece and W. Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Hedgerow; East Wall. In. West Wall. In.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Young shoots - cooked[7]. Use with caution, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

Antiphlogistic Astringent Cathartic Detergent Diuretic Hepatic Homeopathy Ophthalmic Purgative Yellow toadflax has a long history of herbal use. It acts mainly on the liver and was once widely employed as a diuretic in the treatment of oedema[238]. It is little used now, but undoubtedly merits investigation[238]. The whole plant is antiphlogistic, astringent, cathartic, detergent, depurative, diuretic, hepatic, ophthalmic and purgative[4, 7, 9, 21]. It is gathered when just coming into flower and can be used fresh or dried[4, 238]. The plant is especially valued for its strongly laxative and diuretic activities[4]. It is employed internally in the treatment of oedema, jaundice, liver diseases, gall bladder complaints and skin problems[4, 222, 238]. Externally it is applied to haemorrhoids, skin eruptions, sores and malignant ulcers[238]. The plant should be used with caution. It should preferably only be prescribed by a qualified practitioner and should not be given to pregnant women[238]. Dosage is critical, the plant might be slightly toxic[21, 238]. The fresh plant, or an ointment made from the flowers, is applied to piles, skin eruptions etc[4, 222]. The juice of the plant, or the distilled water, is a good remedy for inflamed eyes and cleaning ulcerous sores[4]. A homeopathic remedy is made from the plant[9]. It is used in the treatment of diarrhoea and cystitis[9].

Known Hazards

One report suggests that the plant might be slightly toxic[76].