Other names for Greater Celandine

celandine
chelidonium majus
greater celandine

Synopsis of Greater Celandine

History

Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus) has a rich history as a medicinal herb, dating back to ancient times. Revered by both Greek and Roman physicians, it was often celebrated for its broad range of therapeutic applications. Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder documented its use for supporting liver and gallbladder health, and it was frequently included in remedies for jaundice and other hepatic concerns. In Medieval Europe, Greater Celandine was cherished as a "cure-all," famously employed by herbalists for its cleansing and purifying properties.

Traditionally, the bright orange latex from the plant's stem was applied topically to manage skin conditions such as warts, corns, and eczema, with folk healers observing its soothing and restorative qualities. In addition, Greater Celandine tea or tincture was sometimes used to ease digestive discomfort, stimulate bile flow, and promote gentle detoxification of the body. Its reputation for supporting the body's natural elimination processes contributed to its inclusion in classic European "spring tonics" meant to rejuvenate after winter.

Greater Celandine has often been featured in synergistic herbal combinations. Herbalists paired it with dandelion, milk thistle, and burdock root to enhance liver function and promote overall vitality. Its mild calming effects also made it a companion to herbs like valerian and lemon balm in soothing blends. Through centuries of use, Greater Celandine has earned a respected place in traditional herbal practice, valued for its diverse benefits and gentle support of the body’s natural healing processes.

Traditional and scientific validation

Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus) is a perennial herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Europe and Asia. Historically, it was valued for its purported benefits in supporting liver health, promoting bile flow, and addressing digestive complaints. The plant contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids such as chelidonine and sanguinarine, which have attracted scientific interest for their potential therapeutic properties.

Modern scientific studies have explored Greater Celandine’s effects on liver function, digestive health, and its possible antispasmodic and antimicrobial activities. Some clinical trials and observational studies suggest that extracts of the herb may help alleviate symptoms of dyspepsia (indigestion), particularly when used in combination with other herbal ingredients. For example, a well-known herbal combination containing Greater Celandine and other botanicals has shown promise in reducing gastrointestinal discomfort in several clinical trials, though the specific contribution of Greater Celandine within these formulas is still under investigation.

Laboratory studies have also indicated that Greater Celandine’s alkaloids may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which could contribute to its traditional uses. However, while these findings are encouraging, large-scale, well-controlled human studies are still limited, and the safety profile needs further clarification.

Overall, Greater Celandine remains a respected ingredient in nutritional products, appreciated for its long history of use and its intriguing phytochemical profile. Continued research is warranted to fully validate its health benefits and ensure safe consumption, but its contributions to herbal medicine are notable and ongoing.

Greater Celandine is used for these health conditions

Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Acid Indigestion (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Bites and Stings (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Canker Sores (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Dyspepsia (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Jaundice (adults) (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen) (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Skin (infections) (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)

Greater Celandine is used to support these body systems

Digestive System (Traditional)
Gall Bladder (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)

Products containing Greater Celandine

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.