Introduction
Lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria), also known as spring celandine, is an ancient medicinal plant that is particularly valued in naturopathy. It belongs to the buttercup family and is often praised for its healing properties. But what is so special about this plant and how can it be used?
The discovery of lesser celandine
The healing properties were already recognized in the Middle Ages. At that time, it was mainly used to treat scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. Seafarers, who had to make do without fresh fruit and vegetables for a long time, discovered that taking it alleviated their symptoms. The name “Scharbock” is an old name for scurvy, which illustrates the historical use of the plant.
Dosage forms and dosage
Lesser celandine can be taken in various forms, whereby the dosage is crucial to avoid side effects:
- Fresh leaves: in spring, the young leaves can be used raw in salads or cooked like spinach. They are rich in vitamin C and minerals.
- Tea: A tea can be prepared from the dried leaves. To do this, pour a cup of hot water over a teaspoon of dried herb and leave to infuse for 10 minutes.
- Extracts and tinctures: These are available in pharmacies or health food stores and should be dosed according to the package instructions.
A usual dosage for tinctures is around 10-20 drops, two to three times a day. You should not consume more than a handful of the fresh leaves per day, as the herb can have a toxic effect in larger quantities.
Medicinal use of lesser celandine
It is traditionally used for various ailments:
- Vitamin C deficiency: as already mentioned, it is used to be an important remedy for scurvy. Today, it can help prevent vitamin C deficiency, especially in spring when fresh fruit and vegetables are not yet available in abundance.
- Inflammation and skin problems: The plant has an anti-inflammatory effect. A poultice with chopped leaves can be applied to skin problems such as eczema and wounds.
- Rheumatic complaints: When used internally, it is said to alleviate rheumatic complaints. The ingredients have an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.
- Digestive complaints: A tea made from lesser celandine can help with digestive complaints such as flatulence and constipation.
Effect on the body
Lesser celandine has a wide range of effects on the body. The flavonoids and saponins it contains have an anti-inflammatory effect, while the abundant vitamins and minerals strengthen the immune system. Particularly noteworthy is the high content of vitamin C, which has antioxidant properties and promotes the formation of collagen, which is important for healthy skin.
When should lesser celandine be taken?
It should mainly be taken in spring when the plant is freshly available. After a long winter, it is particularly helpful for strengthening the immune system and replenishing vitamin C stores. It can also be useful at the first signs of a cold or for rheumatic complaints.
Who should not take lesser celandine?
Pregnant and breastfeeding women and small children should only take it after consulting a doctor. People with sensitive skin may have an allergic reaction to topical application. People with a known allergy to buttercups should also exercise caution.
Food supplements and medicinal plants
Lesser celandine can be combined well with other medicinal plants and food supplements to enhance its effect:
- Nettle: Also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with rheumatic complaints.
- Rosehip: It is an excellent source of vitamin C and can work synergistically with it.
- Zinc and vitamin D: Food supplements that provide additional support for the immune system.
Foods with a high content of lesser celandine active ingredients
Foods rich in vitamin C and flavonoids can have similar effects. These include:
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons)
- peppers
- kale
- broccoli
Possible side effects
Although lesser celandine offers many health benefits, side effects can occur if used improperly. These include:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea and diarrhea if consumed in excess.
- Skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
- Symptoms of poisoning such as dizziness and vomiting at very high doses, as the plant contains large amounts of the toxic protoanemonin.
Overdose
An overdose of lesser celandine can lead to severe symptoms of poisoning. Symptoms of an overdose are
- Severe gastrointestinal complaints
- dizziness
- Headache
- Skin rash
In extreme cases, liver damage may occur. It is therefore important to adhere to the recommended dosage and consult a doctor if in doubt.
Naturopathy and use
Lesser celandine is used in phytotherapy (herbal medicine) mainly in the form of teas, tinctures and poultices. The plant is also used in homeopathy in highly diluted form to treat a variety of complaints.
Conclusion
To summarize, lesser celandine is a valuable plant in naturopathy that can offer many health benefits when used correctly. However, caution is required to avoid side effects and overdoses. If you stick to the recommended dosage and take possible allergies into account, you can benefit from the healing properties of lesser celandine.
