Greater Celandine

Supplement Forms/Alternate Names:

Chemaj, celidonia, schllkraut, stinked gouwe, swallow-wort, grand chlidoine

Introduction

Greater celandine is a plant with yellow flowers. The root and leaves have been applied to the skin as an ointment. Greater celandine has been used to promote healing in skin problems such as warts. It has also been used to improve breathing when taken by mouth. Greater celandine can be taken as a pill, extract, or tea.

Dosages

There are no advised doses for greater celandine.

What Research Shows

Not Enough Data to Assess

There is not enough data to support that greater celandine is helpful in treating health problems. We will review future studies as they are published.

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It may be safe to use greater celandine on the skin for a short time, but allergic reactions are possible.A1 Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. Greater celandine may be toxic to the liver when taken by mouth.A2, A3 Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not apply greater celandine to the skin or take by mouth.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

 

References

A. Safety

A1. Etxenagusia MA, Anda M, et al. Contact dermatitis from Chelidonium majus (greater celandine). Contact Dermatitis. 2000 Jul;43(1):47.

A2. Teschke R, Frenzel C, et al. Greater Celandine hepatotoxicity: a clinical review. Ann Hepatol. 2012 Nov Dec;11(6):838-848.

A3. Pantano F, Mannocchi G, et al. Hepatotoxicity induced by greater celandine (Chelidonium majus L.): a review of the literature. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2017 Mar;21(1 Suppl):46-52.

Last reviewed March 2020 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC