Foxglove Woolly: Poisonous, but Beneficial
Foxglove (Digitalis lanata) is a perennial plant that grows up to 1 meter in height and has linear-lanceolate, pointed leaves with a very slightly toothed edge and arched venation. It belongs to the Pied family and grows in the Pontic floristic region in Hungary and Southern Europe. The plant is known for its poisonous properties, but also has medicinal uses.
Foxglove woolly is also known as white foxglove and wolf foxglove. It is deadly poisonous, so it is protected. The parts of the plant used are the leaves, which have the pharmaceutical name “leave of foxglove digitalis lanatae folium” (formerly: Folia Digitalis lanatae).
The pointed-ovate lower lip of the foxglove woolly flower is noteworthy. The thimble-shaped flowers of the plant are whitish or slightly ocher in color, with brown veins. Foxglove woolly blooms from June to September and is cultivated in plantations and gardens, but can also grow wild in wild areas.
The active ingredients of foxglove woolly, like foxglove purpurea, are determined by glycosides, saponins and mucus. The healing effects and areas of application are the same as those of foxglove purpurea. It is used to treat heart failure, arrhythmia, and also to improve blood circulation. However, it is necessary to remember caution regarding self-medication due to the extreme toxicity of the plant.
In conclusion, Foxglove Woolly is a poisonous plant that has medicinal uses. It is important to use it only under the supervision of a doctor and not to self-medicate. It is also necessary to remember that the plant is protected and should not be collected from the wild without special permission.