ENGLISH NAME: Greater
Celandine
LATIN NAME: Chelidonium
majus
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Vlaštovičník
větší
Turkey: Şahtere
Bulgaria: Змийско мляко (Zmijsko mlyako)
Georgia: მერცხლის ბალახი (Mertskhlis
balakhi)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Widespread
across central and southeastern Europe
Elevation: 100–1,300 meters
Terrain: Edges of
forests, neglected gardens, hedgerows, near ruins, walls, and human settlements
DESCRIPTION:
Greater Celandine is an herbaceous perennial growing 30–120 cm tall, with
deeply lobed, light green leaves and small, bright yellow flowers with four
petals. A key feature is its yellow-orange latex, which exudes from broken
stems or leaves. It blooms from late spring through summer and thrives in
disturbed soils.
USABLE PARTS: Stem
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used for its antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial
effects. It has been applied topically for warts and skin irritations and used
internally (with caution) for liver and bile disorders.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Can be toxic in large doses or with prolonged internal use. May cause
nausea, vomiting, or liver damage. Topical use of the sap may cause skin
irritation. Always use under professional supervision.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Historically combined with dandelion or milk thistle for liver support. Should
not be mixed with hepatotoxic drugs.
PREPARATION:
The aerial parts are dried and used in small quantities in tinctures or teas
under medical guidance. Fresh latex has been applied topically for wart
removal.
HARVEST TIME:
Mid to late summer, during the plant’s flowering phase.
HARVEST METHOD:
Use gloves to harvest. Cut upper stems on dry days when the latex is most
active. Avoid roots and excessive handling of the latex.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry quickly in well-ventilated, shaded areas. Store dried material in airtight
containers away from light and moisture. Label with caution due to its
potential toxicity.