Both the so-called forest cowslip or high cowslip (Primula elatior) and the real cowslip (Primula veris) are under special protection in Germany and many other countries. The medicinal plants have been pushed to the brink of extinction in some regions due to extensive agriculture and wild collection, so that they are no longer allowed to be picked or dug up in many places.
Why are cowslips protected?
Primroses, such as Primula elatior and Primula veris, are protected because extensive agriculture and wild collection endanger their existence. In Germany and other countries, their wild populations are protected in order to prevent the overexploitation of natural resources and the extinction of these valuable medicinal plants.
Primroses imported from wild collections
Its special value as a medicinal plant - Primula veris in particular is often used in naturopathy against coughs and other respiratory infections - means that the individual plant components are imported in large quantities, especially from countries like Turkey. The imported supplies there come almost exclusively from wild collections, with the natural occurrence of primroses being overexploited. Cowslips are now either rare or even threatened with extinction in large parts of their very large distribution area. The perennial is one of the most threatened medicinal plants.
Primroses are protected in many countries
Wild populations, especially of the cowslip, are not allowed to be collected in Germany as they are strictly protected in accordance with the Federal Species Protection Ordinance. In six federal states alone, the cowslip is considered potentially endangered or critically endangered, especially in Saxony and Brandenburg. In addition, the perennial is protected in its wild form in many other European countries, including: in Sweden, the Netherlands, Luxembourg etc.
Planting cultivated forms in the garden for medicinal purposes
If you want to use primroses for medicinal purposes, it is best to use plants from your own garden for the reasons described. Both cultivated plants and seeds are available commercially and can be cultivated and propagated wonderfully. Cowslips prefer a sunny to partially shaded location on moist, humus-rich soil. The plants are also extremely easy to care for.
Tip
By the way, the cowslip can not only be used as a medicinal plant, parts of the perennial are even edible. Contrary to some claims, cowslips are not poisonous.
