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Greater Celandine

Also known as: Greater Celandine, Celandine, Swallow Wort, Chelidonium majus

Overview

Greater Celandine (*Chelidonium majus*) is a perennial plant native to Europe and Asia, traditionally used in folk medicine. It's known for its latex and has been explored for various health conditions, including digestive issues, liver and gallbladder disorders, and potential anticancer and antimicrobial properties. The plant contains alkaloids like chelidonine, which are thought to contribute to its medicinal effects. It is available in oral and topical forms. However, research on Greater Celandine is limited, with most studies being observational or small-scale clinical trials. The evidence is generally of low quality due to the lack of well-designed clinical trials and the presence of significant side effects, particularly liver toxicity. Therefore, its use should be approached with caution.

Benefits

Some studies suggest potential benefits for digestive issues, though these are not well-established. Early research indicates possible anticancer effects, but these findings require confirmation through well-designed studies. Additionally, Greater Celandine may possess antimicrobial properties. However, the evidence supporting these benefits is weak, and the effect sizes and clinical significance have not been quantified in reliable studies. Population-specific benefits are not clearly defined due to the limited research. Overall, the benefits of Greater Celandine are not consistently demonstrated, and more rigorous research is needed to validate these claims.

How it works

The alkaloids present in Greater Celandine are believed to interact with various biological pathways, though the specific mechanisms of action are not well-understood. It is thought to affect the digestive and immune systems. However, the known molecular targets, absorption, and bioavailability of its active compounds are not well-studied. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which Greater Celandine may exert its effects on the body.

Side effects

Greater Celandine is associated with significant liver toxicity, making it essential to use with caution. Common side effects include liver injury and potential worsening of autoimmune diseases. Gastrointestinal disturbances are uncommon side effects. Rare side effects may include severe allergic reactions. It may interact with drugs metabolized by the liver. It is contraindicated in individuals with liver disease or autoimmune diseases. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it due to a lack of safety data. Due to the risk of liver damage, regular monitoring of liver function is advisable when using Greater Celandine.

Dosage

A minimum effective dose for Greater Celandine has not been established. Optimal dosage ranges vary widely depending on the condition being treated, and a maximum safe dose is not well-defined due to the potential for toxicity. There are no specific timing recommendations. Both oral and topical forms are used, but specific recommendations are lacking. Absorption factors have not been well-studied, and no required cofactors have been identified. Due to the risk of liver toxicity, it is crucial to adhere to the lowest possible dose and consult with a healthcare professional before use.

FAQs

Is Greater Celandine safe for liver conditions?

No, Greater Celandine can cause liver damage and should be avoided by individuals with liver conditions. It is often mistakenly believed to be safe for liver ailments, but this is inaccurate.

When and how should I take Greater Celandine?

There are no specific guidelines available regarding the timing and administration of Greater Celandine. Due to safety concerns, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before use.

What results can I expect from taking Greater Celandine?

The benefits of Greater Celandine are not consistently demonstrated. Some studies suggest potential benefits for digestive issues, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Research Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548684/ – This resource from the National Center for Biotechnology Information discusses herb-induced liver injury. It identifies Greater Celandine as one of the herbs associated with liver injury, emphasizing the need for caution when using this supplement due to its potential hepatotoxic effects. The information highlights the importance of considering the safety profile of herbal supplements.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34307603/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigates the association between herbal and dietary supplements and liver injury. It confirms Greater Celandine as a potential cause of liver damage, reinforcing the need for caution when using this supplement. The study underscores the importance of healthcare professionals being aware of the potential hepatotoxicity of herbal remedies.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-676/greater-celandine – WebMD provides general information about Greater Celandine, including its uses, potential side effects, and interactions. It notes that Greater Celandine is used for various conditions but also highlights the risk of liver damage. This resource serves as a general overview but should be supplemented with more rigorous scientific evidence.
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jnatprod.3c00939 – This study identifies antimicrobial peptides in *Chelidonium majus*, suggesting potential applications in infection control. The research focuses on the plant's antimicrobial properties and its potential use in combating microbial infections. However, it's important to note that this research is not directly related to human health benefits or clinical applications.
https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/greater_celandine.htm – RxList provides information on Greater Celandine, including its uses, dosage, side effects, and interactions. It mentions that Greater Celandine has been used for various conditions, including digestive disorders and pain relief, but also warns about potential liver toxicity. This resource offers a comprehensive overview of the supplement's properties and potential risks.