The European centaury plant was used to heal the foot of Chiron the centaur, a mythical being, half man and half horse inflicted by the legendary Hercules. This plant is named after the centaurs. It is also called lesser centaury to distinguish it from the greater centaury (Centaurea scabiosa L.), which belongs to the Compositae family and is not used in phytotherapy.
European Centaury Plant Scientific Facts
- Other names: Drug centaurium, lesser centaury, centaury, common centaury, bitter herb.
- French: Petite centauree.
- Spanish: Centaura menor.
- Environment: The European centaury plant grows in pastures and prairies all over Europe, however not very frequently. It has been naturalized to some areas in the warm regions of America.
- Description: Herbaceous plant of the Gentianaceae family, which grows from 10 to 50cm high, with elongated leaves forming a rose in the base of the plant, and pink, terminal flowers.
- Part of the plant used medicinally: The flower heads.
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Healing Properties and Indications
The whole plant contains several bitter components of the glycosidic type. As its Latin name (fel terrae) suggests, it is very bitter in flavor, though less than the gentian, and many of its properties are similar to the latter. This plant is an excellent remedy for the following conditions:
- Stomach ailments: Like all plants containing bitter components, the European centaury plant invigorates digestive processes and increases appetite. It also increases gastric juice production and stimulates the stomach’s ability to empty. It is recommended for chronic gastritis caused by lack of gastric juice, lack of appetite, bloated stomach, intestinal fermentation, and vomiting. The plant also has choleretic properties and thus is used for chronic liver disorders.
- Hypoglycemic: By decreasing the blood sugar level, it is beneficial for people who have type 2 diabetes.
- Mild laxative and febrifuge.
- Cicatrizant: It cleans and heals skin wounds, sores, ulcers, and eczema.
How to use European Centaury
- Infusion with 30g of flower heads per liter of water. Drink a cup before each meal, preferably without sugar. When used as an antidiabetic medicine, it can be sweetened with chemical sweeteners like saccharin, although we advise against taking too much.
- Compresses soaked in a decoction of 50g of flower heads per liter of water, then applied on the affected area.
Rough Centaury
The rough centaury (Centaurea aspera L.), which is also quite bitter, has even more intense hypoglycemic properties than the European centaury. The former can substitute for orally taken antidiabetic medicines and allows patients to reduce insulin doses. Blood tests must be carried out (glucose) during the first days of treatment to regulate the adequate dosage for this plant since its use can even produce hypoglycemia (excessive decrease of the glucose level).
Therefore, medical supervision is required to use this plant. The usual dose is 1-3 infusion cups daily, after meals. The infusion is prepared with 30g of flower heads per liter of water, preferably not sweetened.
Frequently Asked Question
What primary active compounds are believed to be responsible for the European centaury plant’s potential effects?
Centaury contains several bioactive compounds, primarily:
Secoiridoid glycosides: Notably gentiopicroside, sweroside, and swertiamarin. These contribute to the plant’s bitter taste and are thought to stimulate digestion.
Xanthones: Compounds with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Flavonoids: These include quercetin, which also has antioxidant activity.
How does the European centaury plant traditionally interact with digestive health?
European centaury is historically known as a “bitter tonic.” Bitter substances are believed to increase the production of saliva, stomach acid, and digestive enzymes. This potentially supports digestion, eases bloating, and could improve appetite.
Traditional medicinal use also includes treating indigestion (dyspepsia) and flatulence.
Is there scientific evidence to support the digestive uses of centaury?
While traditional use is extensive, well-controlled human studies are limited. Some small studies suggest potential benefits in improving appetite and easing digestive complaints.
More robust research is needed to confirm these effects definitively.
Does the European centaury plant have potential anti-inflammatory effects?
Preliminary animal and laboratory studies hint that compounds in centaury might offer anti-inflammatory actions. However, direct studies on humans are currently lacking.
Are there any claims about the European centaury plant having antioxidant properties?
The presence of flavonoids and xanthones in centaury suggests potential antioxidant activity. Cell-based and animal studies offer some support for this, but human trials are necessary to confirm any antioxidant benefits.
What other potential health benefits have been associated with centaury?
Traditional uses (not fully backed by science) include:
1. Fever reduction
2. Liver and gallbladder support
3. Kidney health promotion
4. High blood pressure management
How is the European centaury plant typically consumed?
Tea: Dried leaves and flowers steeped in hot water is the most common method.
Liquid Extracts/Tinctures: Concentrated forms are also available.
Is the European centaury plant safe for everyone?
Centaury is generally considered safe when used in the short term and in appropriate amounts.
Potential side effects: This could include mild digestive upset in some people.
Important: It is advisable to get guidance from a medical professional prior to using centaury, particularly if you have pre-existing illnesses or are currently on medication.
Are there any known interactions to be aware of with the European centaury plant?
There’s limited data on specific drug interactions. It’s best to proceed with caution.
Potential interactions:
1. Medications that affect stomach acid (antacids, etc.)
2. Medications for diabetes (centaury might lower blood sugar)
3. It is essential to consistently communicate with your healthcare professional about using herbs or supplements.
Where can I find reliable information and sources on the European centaury plant?
Reputable sources include:
1. National Center for Complementary & Integrative Health (NCCIH): https://www.nccih.nih.gov/
2. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
3. Scientific journals and databases
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. It would be best to not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 436,437. Print. [European centaury plant]
- https://www.nccih.nih.gov/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- https://scholar.google.com/
- Länger, R., & Kubelka, W. (2002). Secoiridoids from Centaurium erythraea and Centaurium littorale. Phytochemistry, 59(3), 353–356.
- Yarnell, E., & Abascal, K. (2002). Botanicals as digestives. Alternative & Complementary Therapies, 8(4), 205–212.
- Speranza, L., Franceschelli, S., Pesce, M., Menghini, L., Patruno, A., Vinciguerra, I., De Lutiis, M. A., Felaco, M., & Grilli, A. (2009). Anti-inflammatory properties of the plant Centaurium erythraea Rafn (Gentianaceae). Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 122(2), 258–263.
Last update on 2024-04-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API