Greater celandine: A humble weed with potent healing powers

Greater celandine is well-known in natural medicine. This plant is especially recommended in the fight against warts and calluses, but its uses do not end there.

Greater celandine is a common weed with medicinal properties. It has been used for centuries, among other things, as an antipyretic. However, celandine shows several other applications. See what else is worth knowing about this plant.

Numerous studies have proven that a tincture of greater celandine has anticancer effects (greater celandine is a main ingredient in a preparation that treats several types of cancer, including leukaemia). Additionally, celandine has diuretic properties, helps with excessive water retention in the body, and accelerates skin regeneration caused by irritation. Celandine is also excellent in treating psoriasis and fungal infections, and it can be successfully used on corns and warts.

Greater celandine has antiviral and antibacterial properties. Additionally, it shows slight calming properties in cases of neurosis. Using a decoction of greater celandine is recommended to soothe nerves and ensure a good night's sleep. It can also effectively reduce headaches. Celandine also relaxes smooth muscles, which regulate the functions of the digestive tract, bile ducts, and reproductive organs. With its relaxing, bactericidal, and choleretic effects, it is recommended for use in pancreatic diseases, hepatitis, indigestion, and gallstones.

Greater celandine oil or ointment is applied to the skin, for example, in rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin problems. The plant has a cleansing effect on the skin, which is why it is also used in the fight against skin changes.

A celandine infusion is prepared by pouring 470 ml of boiling water over 15 g of dried herb. After 30 minutes, the infusion should be strained. The infusion should be used up to 4 times a day, 100 ml each time. Such a treatment can last up to two weeks. Despite its many health benefits, greater celandine is considered a toxic plant, so it should be used under the supervision of a doctor or herbalist. The maximum daily dose is accepted as 2–5 g of dried herb (12–30 mg alkaloids).