Also known by various names such as mouse-ear hawkweed and cat’s tongue, pilosella (Hieracium pilosella) is a small wild plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Rich in beneficial properties, it is a natural and precious aid for our body. Its botanical name derives from the Greek “hierax” (falcon), due to the ancient belief that falcons ate it to sharpen their eyesight, and from the Latin “pilosus” (hairy), referring to the white hairs on its basal leaves.
Properties of Pilosella
Modern phytotherapy attributes diuretic, antibiotic, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties to pilosella. It is a good ally for the liver (thanks to its ability to stimulate bile secretion and facilitate bile flow through the gallbladder) and the urinary system.
Its use is effective for water retention due to its diuretic effect, combined with a valid anti-infective activity on the mucous membranes of the genital and urinary tracts, particularly the bladder. Pilosella is used in various conditions where increased excretion of fluids and waste is beneficial. These include:
- Obesity, which predisposes to fluid retention,
- Cellulite,
- Mild hypertension,
- Elevated uric acid levels in the blood, which predisposes to gout,
- Cystitis.
Additionally, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it has a soothing effect on respiratory disorders such as asthma, bronchitis, and cough. Most of these activities are primarily due to flavonoids, coumarins, and triterpenes. These compounds, along with tannins, inulin, caffeic and chlorogenic acids, essential oil, and umbelliferone, make up the phytocomplex of pilosella. Due to its high concentration of umbelliferone, this plant is used in cosmetics in sun protection products.
It is suitable for oral use and can be administered as an infusion, mother tincture, or dry or fluid extract. Finally, for external use, it can be employed as an astringent for abrasions, wounds, cuts, and skin ulcers.
Precautions
The information provided represents general guidelines and does not replace medical advice in any way. There are no contraindications for the use of pilosella in healthy adults, except in cases of individual hypersensitivity to its components or a confirmed allergy to Asteraceae. As a precaution, it is advisable to avoid consuming pilosella-based products during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Additionally, as with all diuretic herbs, simultaneous use with diuretic medications should be avoided.
