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Common Name
Celandine, Greater Celandine
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Botanical Name
Chelidonium majus
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Part Used
Herb
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Alcohol
25%
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Dose
10 to 40mL weekly
A bitter cholagogue and antispasmodic herb, used to treat spasms of the gastrointestinal tract and bile duct, celandine is said to clean the gall bladder and stimulate bile flow in cases of hepatitis, jaundice and gall stones.
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Traditional Use
Celandine is often used as an example of the doctrine of signatures, the concept that a plant resembles the condition or part of the body that it can heal, because the bright, yellowy, orange sap resembles bile. This sap is also used topically, twice daily, for viral warts and tinea.
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Actions
Cholagogue, choleretic, antispasmodic, anthelmintic, bitter tonic, laxative (mild), anti-inflammatory, sedative, antiviral, vulnerary
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Indications
• Sluggish liver, to support healthy gallbladder function
• Indigestion, bloating and flatulence
• Insomnia, anxiety
• Rheumatism, gout
• Topically for warts, ringworm, herpes -
Energetics
Hot, dry
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Use in Pregnancy
Contraindicated
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Contraindications & Cautions
Excessive intake may cause nausea or gastrointestinal symptoms. Long-term use of high doses is associated with a low risk of a moderate idiosyncratic hepatotoxic reaction. Recommended for short-term use only. Discontinue if evidence of liver damage arises (clinical outcome likely to be favourable after discontinuation). Contraindicated in the case of biliary obstructions, existing or previous liver disease. In cases of gallstones the herb should not be used without professional advice. Use of this herb should not be combined with heavy alcohol consumption.
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Drug Interactions
Caution with hepatotoxic and immunosuppressant drugs
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Dietary Information
Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free
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Substitutes
Wormwood, Mugwort, Black Walnut, Cloves, Golden Seal, Boldo, Barberry