Certified Organic Celandine Extract
Also known as: Greater celandine, Swallowwort, Tetterwort, *Chelidonium majus*
Overview
Greater celandine (*Chelidonium majus*) is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, recognized for its yellow latex and traditional medicinal properties. Historically, it has been used in folk medicine to address various health conditions including digestive issues, and liver and gallbladder disorders. The herb contains several alkaloids, such as chelidonine, which may contribute to its therapeutic effects. Despite its long-standing use, research on greater celandine remains limited, with few high-quality clinical trials available. Most current studies exhibit methodological flaws and a scarcity of systematic reviews hampers a comprehensive understanding of its efficacy across health conditions.
Benefits
The primary benefits of greater celandine include potential relief from indigestion and support for gallbladder health, though strong evidence is lacking. Some studies suggest anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties based on animal research, yet these findings require validation through human trials. The evidence strength for these benefits remains low as demonstrated in studies like the meta-analysis of greater celandine in the Iberogast formulation, which indicated moderate improvements in indigestion symptoms in a small cohort of patients. Overall, the clinical significance and effect sizes are not well quantified due to the limited quality of available evidence.
How it works
Greater celandine may exert its effects through immune modulation and antioxidant properties, potentially benefiting the digestive system and immune responses. However, the precise molecular targets and biological pathways involved are yet to be clearly defined in the literature, and research regarding absorption and bioavailability is scarce.
Side effects
The safety profile of greater celandine is concerning, as oral consumption may lead to liver damage, making it possibly unsafe for general use. Common side effects are not well-documented, but potential allergic reactions and, in rare cases, severe liver damage have been reported. Caution is advised when considering drug interactions, especially with hepatotoxic medications and immunosuppressants. It is contraindicated in individuals with liver diseases, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with autoimmune conditions where enhanced caution is warranted.
Dosage
No established minimum effective dose exists for greater celandine, and recommendations typically involve its use as part of multi-herbal products like Iberogast. Due to safety concerns, a maximum safe dosage has not been defined. Timing and administration guidelines remain unspecified, and common usage is oral, albeit potentially risky. Limited data on absorption factors means that further research is needed to clarify these aspects.
FAQs
Is greater celandine safe to use?
Greater celandine may pose risks of liver toxicity, so caution is advised, especially for individuals with liver conditions.
What should I know about dosage?
No specific dosage guidelines exist; it is often used in multi-herbal formulas, and safety concerns prevent establishing a maximum dose.
How does greater celandine work?
Its effects may involve immune modulation and antioxidant activities, but detailed mechanisms of action remain unclear.
What are common misconceptions about greater celandine?
Many believe it is safe and effective without acknowledging the lack of robust, supporting evidence.
Research Sources
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-676/greater-celandine – WebMD provides an overview of greater celandine, detailing its traditional uses and potential health benefits, alongside safety considerations and side effects.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29713277/ – This study reviews greater celandine's pharmacological properties, examining its historical applications and providing insight into recent research, although it highlights the limited nature of high-quality studies.
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/278303743_Chelidonium_majus_L_Greater_celandine_-_A_Review_on_its_Phytochemical_and_Therapeutic_Perspectives – This review focuses on the phytochemical profile of greater celandine and discusses its therapeutic applications, acknowledging the need for more rigorous clinical evidence.
- https://rnz.iz.edu.pl/files/RNZ_2023_50_2_art04_en.pdf – This meta-analysis examines the effects of greater celandine within a multi-herbal formulation, suggesting positive outcomes for indigestion but noting the limitations of its methodology.
- https://supplements.selfdecode.com/blog/celandine/ – The blog reviews various aspects of celandine, summarizing its traditional uses and health claims while emphasizing the lack of strong scientific backing.
Recommended Articles
Glutamine Dosage for Gut Health: A Guide
Glutamine supports gut health with a recommended dosage of 5-30 grams per day, available in various supplement forms.
2025's Top Vegan Protein Powders: A Buyer's Guide
In 2025, the best vegan protein powders are third-party tested, ensuring purity, safety, and high nutritional content.
Top Anti-Inflammatory Supplement Ingredients
Curcumin, omega-3 fatty acids, CBD, and Vitamin D are proven to effectively reduce chronic inflammation.
Top NSF & Informed-Sport Certified Supplements
NSF Certified for Sport and Informed-Sport certifications ensure supplement safety and efficacy for athletes.