Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Papaveraceae
• Common Names: Greater Celandine, Swallowwort
• Parts Used: Aerial parts, latex (sap), root

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Description

Chelidonium majus is a perennial herb native to Europe and parts of Asia, often found growing in hedgerows, waste areas, and along roadsides. It has a long history in herbal medicine, particularly for liver support, skin conditions, and digestive health. The plant’s bright yellow latex contains alkaloids that have been traditionally used for their antimicrobial and detoxifying effects.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional European medicine for liver and gallbladder health.
• Employed as a topical remedy for warts and skin conditions.
• Traditionally taken as a digestive tonic to stimulate bile production and relieve indigestion.

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Constituents

• Isoquinoline alkaloids (chelidonine, sanguinarine, berberine)
• Flavonoids
• Saponins
• Organic acids
• Essential oils

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Actions

• Choleretic (stimulates bile flow)
• Hepatoprotective (supports liver function)
• Antispasmodic
• Analgesic
• Antimicrobial
• Expectorant
• Vulnerary (wound healing)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Liver and Gallbladder Support:
Greater Celandine is traditionally used to aid liver detoxification and stimulate bile flow, making it useful for gallbladder congestion and jaundice.

2. Digestive Health:
The plant’s bitter properties help relieve indigestion, bloating, and sluggish digestion.

3. Skin Conditions and Wart Removal:
The yellow sap (latex) is applied externally to treat warts, corns, and fungal infections.

4. Respiratory Support:
Used historically as an expectorant to help clear mucus in respiratory infections and bronchitis.

5. Pain and Spasm Relief:
Its antispasmodic properties help relieve cramps, particularly in the digestive system.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1 tsp of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-4 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice or Fresh Latex:

• Apply fresh sap directly to warts, avoiding healthy skin.

Decoction (Liver Tonic):

• Simmer 1 tsp of dried root in water for 15 minutes; take in small doses.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended due to alkaloid content.
• Liver Conditions: While it supports liver function, excessive use may be toxic to the liver; use cautiously.
• Topical Use Caution: Latex can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
• Dosage Sensitivity: Overuse may cause nausea, dizziness, or gastrointestinal upset.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional European Herbalism: Cooling and detoxifying; supports bile flow and skin health.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Used to move stagnant liver Qi and clear heat.

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Combinations

• For Liver Support: Combine with dandelion and milk thistle.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with fennel and gentian.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and chickweed.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Aerial parts are collected when in bloom; roots can be harvested in autumn.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried herb in an airtight container away from light and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Chelidonium majus’s hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties, reinforcing its traditional medicinal applications.

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Greater Celandine remains a powerful herb for liver health, digestive function, and skin conditions, though careful use is required due to its potent alkaloids.