Lesser celandine

Ficaria verna (syn. Ranunculus ficaria)

Traditionally attributed effects: astringent, used for haemorrhoids.

Safety notes

Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose. Do not use internally. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Cautions by tradition (1)

Herbal medicine worldwide: Do not use internally.

Preparation

Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose.

Use in traditions

According to the doctrine of signatures the little tubers resembled haemorrhoids, so the herb was called pilewort. In spring the young leaves were eaten against scurvy, but the raw plant is slightly poisonous because of protoanemonin. Externally an ointment was used on haemorrhoids.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Herbal medicine worldwide

Attributed effects

Astringent, used for haemorrhoids.

Preparation and amount

Roots, leaves.

Caution: Do not use internally.

Sources

All herbs from Europe →