Introduction
Corydalis fingered (Corydalis solida), a plant from the poppy family, has a firm place in traditional and modern medicine. Its healing properties have been known for centuries and its discovery has had a lasting influence on the world of naturopathy.
The discovery of corydalis fingered
The discovery of corydalis fingered goes back to ancient herbalists who searched for medicinal plants in the forests of Central Europe. Especially in regions such as the Balkans and the Carpathians, the plant was valued for its striking, finger-shaped flowers and its medicinal properties. The first records of its medicinal use date back to the Middle Ages, when monks cultivated larkspur in monastery gardens and used it to alleviate various ailments.
Forms of application and dosage
Corydalis fingered can be taken in various forms:
- Tea: The dried roots can be brewed into a soothing tea. A typical dosage is one teaspoon of dried root per 250 ml of hot water, infused for 10 minutes.
- Tincture: The root is soaked in alcohol to extract the active ingredients. The recommended dosage is 20-30 drops two to three times a day.
- Capsules: Powdered roots can be taken in capsule form. The usual dosage is 500 mg up to three times a day.
- Ointment: An ointment containing larkspur extract can be used externally for muscle pain.
Medicinal uses of corydalis fingered corydalis
Corydalis fingered is used for various diseases:
- Pain relief: The plant contains alkaloids that have a pain-relieving effect. It is particularly valued for rheumatism, arthritis and migraines.
- Sedative: Corydalis has a calming effect on the nervous system and helps with insomnia and anxiety.
- Gastrointestinal complaints: It can relieve cramps and aid digestion.
- Menstrual cramps: Women use the plant to relieve menstrual pain and cramps.
Effect on the body
The healing effect of corydalis fingered is based on its chemical composition. The alkaloids it contains, such as bulbocapnine and corydalin, have an analgesic and calming effect. They interact with the central nervous system and block the transmission of pain, which leads to noticeable relief. They also promote the release of endorphins, the body’s own painkillers.
When and how should corydalis fingered be taken?
Corydalis fingered should be taken when needed:
- For acute pain: take as a tea or tincture at the first sign of pain.
- Before going to bed: To promote sound sleep, the tea or tincture can be taken in the evening.
- For digestive complaints: After meals to relieve cramps and aid digestion.
Contraindications and precautions
Corydalis fingered is not suitable for everyone. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take the plant, as the alkaloids can pass to the unborn or breastfed child. Children under the age of 12 should also not take preparations containing corydalis. People with an allergy to poppy plants should be careful and consult a doctor before use.
Food supplements and medicinal plants
The following dietary supplements can be useful to enhance the effect of corydalis fingered:
- Magnesium: Promotes muscle relaxation and can relieve cramps.
- Valerian: Supports the calming effect in cases of insomnia and anxiety.
- Ginger: Promotes digestion and can have a supportive effect on gastrointestinal complaints.
Natural sources and foods
Corydalis fingered itself is not found directly in food, but its alkaloids can be absorbed by eating certain plant families with similar active ingredients:
- Poppy seeds: Contain analgesic alkaloids and can be consumed in small amounts.
- Papaver somniferum (opium poppy): Used similarly in traditional medicine.
Corydalis fingered: Side effects and overdose
Occasionally, side effects may occur when taking corydalis fingered. These include nausea, dizziness and stomach problems. An overdose can lead to severe circulatory problems, shortness of breath and even symptoms of poisoning. It is therefore important not to exceed the recommended dosage and to consult a doctor if in doubt.
Use in naturopathy
In naturopathy, corydalis fingered is valued above all as a painkiller and sedative. Homeopathic preparations and plant extracts are used for chronic pain and nervous conditions. The plant is also used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to treat pain and as a sedative.
Summary
Corydalis fingered is a valuable medicinal plant with a wide range of applications. Its pain-relieving and calming properties make it an indispensable component of naturopathy. When dosed and used correctly, it can be an effective and natural alternative to synthetic medicines. However, as with all medicinal plants, caution is advised and expert advice is recommended in cases of doubt.
Published on: 5. July 2024
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Herbal healing, Traditional Chinese Medicine