Lesser Celandine (Ranunculus ficaria)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Ranunculaceae
• Common Names: Lesser Celandine, Figwort, Pilewort
• Parts Used: Aerial parts, Roots (used cautiously)

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Description

Ranunculus ficaria, commonly known as Lesser Celandine, is a low-growing perennial herb native to Europe and Western Asia. It is traditionally used for skin conditions, wound healing, and hemorrhoid relief. The plant contains protoanemonin, which can be toxic in large amounts or when used fresh, requiring proper drying or processing before medicinal use.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional European medicine for treating hemorrhoids and varicose veins.
• Applied externally as a poultice for skin irritations, burns, and wounds.
• Historically used to support circulation and reduce swelling in inflammatory conditions.
• Known as “Pilewort” due to its long-standing reputation for treating hemorrhoids.

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Constituents

• Protoanemonin (toxic in fresh plant, converts to anemonin when dried)
• Saponins
• Tannins
• Flavonoids
• Vitamin C

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Actions

• Astringent
• Anti-inflammatory
• Vulnerary (Wound-healing)
• Circulatory stimulant
• Analgesic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Hemorrhoid Relief:
Lesser Celandine is commonly used in ointments and creams to soothe and shrink hemorrhoids.

2. Wound Healing:
Applied as a poultice or infused oil to promote skin repair and reduce irritation.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Used externally for swelling, varicose veins, and inflammatory skin conditions.

4. Circulatory Support:
Traditionally used to strengthen capillaries and improve blood flow.

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Preparation and Dosage

⚠️ Note: The fresh plant is toxic and should be dried or processed before use.

Infused Oil (Topical Use):

• Dried herb is infused in oil for use in hemorrhoid creams and skin salves.

Poultice:

• Crushed dried leaves applied externally for wound healing.

Tincture:

• 1-3 ml of tincture from dried plant material, taken up to twice daily (under guidance).

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Toxicity Warning: Fresh plant contains protoanemonin, which can cause skin irritation, nausea, and digestive issues. Use only dried or processed forms.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid internal use.
• Skin Sensitivity: Test topically before widespread application.
• Avoid Internal Use in Large Doses: Due to potential irritant effects.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; used for astringent and circulatory-stimulating properties.
• Traditional European Medicine: Known for hemorrhoid treatment and wound healing.

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Combinations

• For Hemorrhoid Relief: Combine with witch hazel and horse chestnut.
• For Wound Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.
• For Circulatory Support: Combine with yarrow and butcher’s broom.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves and flowers are collected in early spring and dried immediately.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried herb in an airtight container away from heat and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies suggest Ranunculus ficaria’s traditional uses for hemorrhoid relief and skin healing are supported by its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.

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Lesser Celandine remains a valuable herb in traditional herbal medicine, particularly for hemorrhoid relief, wound healing, and circulatory support. Due to its toxicity in fresh form, it must be used carefully and in processed preparations.