Greater celandine (Ruta graveolens) is a perennial plant that belongs to the Rutaceae family, and its leaves and seeds are used for medicinal purposes.
It is native to southern Europe and northern Africa but has spread worldwide due to its medicinal properties. The plant grows in poor, rocky soils and prefers a warm climate.
The leaves of this plant have a bitter aroma. They contain active chemical compounds such as rutin, furanocoumarins, and flavonoids. These substances give the plant anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiparasitic, and healing properties.
Greater celandine is primarily used in traditional medicine as a treatment for various ailments. It is used in the form of tea, tincture, or oil. Among the conditions for which greater celandine is used are rheumatism, arthritis, headaches, respiratory infections, indigestion, intestinal worms, and skin conditions such as eczema and wounds.
It is important to note that greater celandine contains toxic compounds and can cause skin and mucosal irritations if used improperly or in large doses. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult a specialist before using greater celandine for medicinal purposes.
The tincture of greater celandine has various health benefits due to its medicinal properties, including:
1. Anti-inflammatory properties:
The tincture of greater celandine can help reduce inflammation in the body, being useful in the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
For inflammatory conditions, a few drops of tincture diluted in a glass of water can be taken, usually two or three times a day. The specific dose and duration of treatment should be determined by a specialist based on the severity of the condition and individual response.
2. Antispasmodic properties:
Consuming the tincture of greater celandine can help relax muscles and alleviate muscle cramps or digestive spasms.
For muscle cramps or digestive spasms, a few drops of tincture diluted in water can be administered, usually two or three times a day, depending on need. It is recommended to consult a specialist for dosing and duration of use.
3. Antiparasitic properties:
Greater celandine has antiparasitic effects and can be used to treat intestinal infections caused by parasites.
For intestinal infections, the tincture of greater celandine can be taken internally under the supervision of a specialist. The dose and duration of treatment will be determined based on the severity of the infection and the specialist’s recommendations.
4. Healing properties:
Applied topically, the tincture of greater celandine can help heal wounds, minor burns, or skin inflammations due to its healing properties.
The tincture of greater celandine can be applied topically to the skin, directly on the affected area. It is important to dilute the tincture in a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, in an appropriate dilution ratio. You can use a small amount of tincture and gently massage the affected area. Repeat several times a day, as needed.
5. Expectorant properties:
Consuming the tincture of greater celandine can help loosen and eliminate mucus from the lungs, being useful in treating respiratory conditions such as cough and bronchitis.
To benefit from the expectorant properties of the tincture of greater celandine, a few drops diluted in warm water or herbal tea can be taken two or three times a day. This can help reduce coughing and loosen mucus from the lungs.
6. Antifungal properties:
Greater celandine can be effective against certain fungal infections, such as mycoses or candidiasis.
7. Digestive properties:
The tincture of greater celandine can help stimulate bile secretion and digestive juices, promoting digestion and reducing gastric discomfort.
It is important to always follow the recommendations of a specialist before using the tincture of greater celandine for a specific condition and to adhere to the specified doses and instructions. This ensures the correct and safe use of the plant.
Tincture of Greater Celandine
Ingredients:
Dried leaves of greater celandine
Ethyl alcohol or vodka (with an alcohol content of at least 40%)
A glass jar with an airtight lid
Small glass containers for storage
Preparation method for the tincture of greater celandine:
Take the leaves of greater celandine and crush them into small pieces.
Fill the glass jar with the crushed greater celandine leaves up to about 2/3 of its volume.
Pour the ethyl alcohol or vodka into the jar, ensuring it completely covers the leaves. Make sure that all the contents of the jar are submerged in liquid.
Close the jar tightly and shake it gently to mix the contents.
Leave the jar to macerate in a dark and cool place for about 2-3 weeks. Be sure to shake the jar a few times a week to facilitate the release of active substances into the alcohol.
After the maceration period, strain the tincture liquid through cheesecloth, muslin, or a coffee filter to remove the greater celandine leaves.
Pour the obtained tincture into small airtight glass containers.
The tincture of greater celandine can be stored in a dark and cool place for a longer period. It is usually recommended to take a few drops diluted in water or juice, according to the specialist’s recommendations, as the tincture is concentrated and should be used with caution.
Attention
There are some contraindications and precautions associated with the use of tincture of greater celandine. These include:
Sensitivity or allergy to plants in the Rutaceae family:
Individuals who are sensitive or have a known allergy to plants in the same family as greater celandine, such as lemon or bergamot, should avoid using the tincture of greater celandine.
Sensitive skin:
Greater celandine can cause skin irritations and burns if applied directly to the skin in an unattenuated state or in high concentrations. It is recommended to dilute the tincture in a carrier oil before applying it to the skin and to always test it on a small area of skin to check for individual reactions.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
The use of tincture of greater celandine during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended, as there may be adverse effects on the fetus or newborn. It is better to consult a doctor before using ANY product based on greater celandine during these periods.
Drug interactions:
Greater celandine may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, oral contraceptives, medications for treating high blood pressure, or certain mental health conditions. These interactions can alter the effectiveness of medications or enhance side effects. It is important to consult a doctor before using tincture of greater celandine if you are taking other medications.
Dosing and overdose:
It is essential to adhere to the recommended dose of tincture of greater celandine. High doses or prolonged use can cause adverse reactions, including gastrointestinal irritations, nausea, vomiting, or allergic reactions. Always follow the specialist’s recommendations and do not exceed the recommended dose.
It is important to always consult a doctor, herbalist, or specialist before using tincture of greater celandine, especially if you have certain pre-existing medical conditions, are taking other medications, or have specific health concerns. They will be able to provide personalized advice and appropriate adjustments based on your individual needs.
