Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus) has a longstanding history in traditional European herbal medicine for treating various skin conditions, including the external management of bleeding. Historical records and ethnobotanical sources describe the use of its bright orange latex as a topical styptic agent, aimed at staunching minor cuts and abrasions. This practice is primarily rooted in folk medicine traditions, notably in Eastern European and Russian herbalism, where the plant's latex was directly applied to wounds to help stop bleeding and promote healing.

However, scientific validation for this use is limited. While Greater Celandine contains bioactive compounds such as alkaloids (e.g., chelidonine, sanguinarine) known for antimicrobial and mildly astringent properties, there is a lack of modern clinical trials or robust pharmacological studies directly confirming its efficacy as a styptic or hemostatic agent in humans. Most of the available evidence is anecdotal or derived from traditional texts rather than empirical research. Furthermore, the latex can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes, which raises safety concerns for topical use.

In summary, while Greater Celandine's use for external bleeding is supported by tradition, scientific evidence is lacking, and caution is warranted due to potential side effects. The evidence rating reflects the strong traditional use but limited modern scientific support.

More about Greater Celandine
More about Bleeding (external)

Other ingredients used for Bleeding (external)

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