herbs - Centaury (Centaurium erythraea)

What is it?

Centaury is a plant found widely in Europe. In Russia, it is traditional to combine this herb with vodka to make a decoction, a wine glassful of this mixture is drunk as a liver and gall bladder tonic. The whole plant is used in herbal medicine. 

Action

Centaury contains compounds known as bitters, which improve digestive function and encourage a healthy appetite. They stimulate the secretion of digestive juices in the stomach, duodenum and liver. Centaury is also analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic (reduces perspiration) and a mild sedative.

Uses

Our experts recommend Centaury for:

• Heartburn
• Hiatus hernia

Centaury has also been used by herbalists for the follow disorders:

• General digestive tonic
• Indigestion
• Mild liver problems
• Nausea

Other information

Centaury is available as tablets, capsules, but the tincture is probably the best choice for digestive problems.

Cautions

• Generally, there are no side effects or contra-indications from using Centaury herbal remedies, however people with ulcers and inflammatory bowel disorders should consult a doctor or naturopath before using Centaury. 



• The safety of Centaury during pregnancy or lactation has not been sufficiently investigated, so it is best avoided until more is known.



• When this article was written there were no well-known negative drug interactions with Centaury.

This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk). The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.