Mouse-ear Hawkweed Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Mouse-ear hawkweed (Pilosella officinarum, also known as Hieracium pilosella) is a small perennial plant in the daisy family (Asteraceae). It grows low to the ground in a rosette of soft, hairy leaves and produces slender stems topped with small yellow, dandelion-like flowers.

The plant is native to Europe and parts of Asia and is also found in North America, often growing in dry fields, grassy areas, and along roadsides. The aerial parts (leaves, stems, and flowers) have a long history of use in traditional European herbal medicine.

People have traditionally taken it as a tea, tincture, or extract for urinary, digestive, and respiratory complaints. It is sometimes applied to the skin as an astringent. Today it is found mostly in herbal product blends rather than as a mainstream supplement.

Mouse-ear hawkweed contains several plant compounds that may explain its traditional uses. These include flavonoids and other polyphenols (antioxidants), coumarins such as umbelliferone, and tannins, which have an astringent (tightening) effect on tissues.

The tannins may account for its traditional use on minor wounds and for digestive complaints, while certain compounds are thought to have mild diuretic and antimicrobial properties. Laboratory studies have reported antioxidant and antibacterial activity for plant extracts.

It is important to know that this information is based mostly on test-tube and animal research. How these compounds behave in the human body, and at what doses they might matter, is not well understood.

There is not much modern safety data on mouse-ear hawkweed. Because it belongs to the daisy (Asteraceae) family, people who are allergic to ragweed, marigolds, daisies, chrysanthemums, or related plants may be more likely to have an allergic reaction.

People with kidney disease or who are prone to dehydration should be cautious because of its possible diuretic (water-losing) effect. If you have an ongoing health condition or take prescription medicines, check with a pharmacist or doctor first.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is no reliable safety information for these situations. To be safe, mouse-ear hawkweed should be avoided during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Do not use it as a substitute for proper medical care, especially for a suspected infection or kidney stones.

Reported side effects are not well documented because the herb has not been studied closely in people. Based on its makeup and how similar herbs behave, possible effects include stomach upset and increased urination from its diuretic action.

The biggest concern is allergic reaction, particularly in people sensitive to plants in the daisy family. Stop using it and seek medical care if you develop a rash, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing.

Because real-world safety information is limited, start with caution and watch for any unusual reactions.

There is no established standard dose for mouse-ear hawkweed. Traditional use has involved teas made from the dried herb and liquid extracts or tinctures, but reliable, science-based dosing is not available.

If you choose to use a product, follow the directions on the label and do not exceed the suggested amount. Because product strength and quality can vary widely between brands, choose products from reputable manufacturers.

The safest approach is to talk with a pharmacist or doctor before starting, so they can review your health history and current medications.