Also known as celidonia, chelidonium, warts and callus grass, the plant of the Papaveraceae family has an erect stem, which can reach from 30 to 120 centimeters in height. Its leaves are lobed and reach 30 centimeters long, its sap is yellow-orange and its flowers are composed of four yellow petals. Flowers are common in late spring and summer, and the plant thrives in areas with low light and cool temperature. The swallow herb is considered an invasive and aggressive plant in natural areas. Native to Europe and West Asia, the plant has been taken to other parts of the world due to its healing properties.
Index
Medicinal properties and indications
Acting as a local sedative, analgesic, anti-asthmatic, antibacterial, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, calming and soothing to angina pectoris, healing, choleretic, colagoga and several other medicinal properties, the plant can be used to treat many ailments. Among them are acne, arthritis, bronchial asthma, increased urine production, bronchitis, gallstones, skin diseases, eczema, migraine, hepatitis, skin patches, muscle spasms, wart elimination, among others.
It consists of acids, chelidonic, malic, citric, tartaric, isoquinoline alkaloids, mucilage, flavonoids, histamine, saponins, resins, magnoflorin, albumins, vitamin C, allocriptonin, berberine and others.
How to use?
For external use, use infusion or decoction. The proportion that should be used is five spoons of leaves for every liter of water. Bring the water to the fire and, when it comes to a boil, add the herb. Simmer for approximately ten minutes and turn off. Only use the plant with medical guidance and supervision and never orally. Apply as a compress, two to three times a day.
To eliminate warts, its used part is latex, the white substance that flows from the herb. The first step will be to protect the rest of the skin not affected by the wart with a bandage or petroleum jelly to avoid irritation in the area. Then apply latex to the wart two to three times a day.
Side effects, contraindications and necessary care
This plant should be used internally only in case of medical advice. As it is toxic, its use in this way is not recommended, as it can cause stomatitis and gastroenteritis. Excessive use or use in excess of recommendations can lead to nausea, vomiting, coma and even death. In case of accidental ingestion, it will be necessary to perform a stomach lavage. It can also cause visual obscurity, headache, burning eyes, chest pain, distress, difficulty breathing, depression, diarrhea and tingling in the body. It must not be used without medical advice.