Content
- The celandine - natural medicine and also poisonous
- To find the celandine in nature
- The use as natural medicine
- The poisonous effects of celandine
- Tips
Celandine contains toxic components
The celandine - natural medicine and also poisonous
Even the famous doctor and mystic Paracelsus knew that many substances in nature can act both as a remedy and as a poison. Celandine is not only about the dose, but also about the important difference between internal and external use.
To find the celandine in nature
The celandine is mainly found in Europe, but since the spread by settlers, it is also native to many locations in North America. In nature, it is found primarily in locations that have a nitrogen-rich soil and are not too dry. This may be the case on stony brownfields, along the banks of the river or even in sparse deciduous forests. The pinnate leaves with their hairy undersides and alternate arrangement are relatively characteristic shaped, but the celandine is easier to discover during the flowering period by its bright yellow flowers. When breaking off a stalk of celandine, the yellowish-colored plant juice immediately appears.
The use as natural medicine
The internal use of celandine preparations should (if at all) be done absolutely only on medical advice, as the ingredients can be toxic. In contrast, the external use of the actually toxic milk juice is relatively safe when warts are carefully dabbed with it for treatment. There are also various teas and tinctures on the market, pay close attention to the exact dosage and administration instructions.
The poisonous effects of celandine
In addition to various other active ingredients, alkaloids are present in all parts of the celandine and in particular in the root, which can even lead to death due to circulatory failure after ingestion in extreme cases. These alkaloids contained in celandine can make you mentally and physically dependent:
Tips
Like many other medicinal and poisonous plants, the celandine in the garden is usually not a major health hazard if you keep informed and attentive to it. Sensitive individuals should wear gloves to protect themselves from skin irritation.