Butterbur grows on the edges of rivers and woods, in ditches and marshy meadows. It is much larger than the Coltsfoot, which belongs to the same family. The leaves grow to hat size, are slightly scalloped and covered with grey down on the underside. The dirty-white to pale pink flowers, shaped like little baskets, sit densely on the upper part of the stems. The fever reducing roots, which had gained a great reputation during the time of the plague, are gathered before the time of flowering.

DIRECTIONS:

Infusion: One level teaspoon of roots is soaked in cold water overnight, warmed and strained in the morning.

Applications: Fresh, washed leaves are crushed and applied. This is repeated several times a day.