Do you suffer from gastrointestinal problems? Then keep reading now, because this info will enrich your life. You have probably never heard of centaury, which is considered one of the best herbs for stomach and intestinal problems. The small plant with its red-purple flowers contains bitter substances and other active plant ingredients that can do a lot in our organism. Centaury has many uses. Its healing effect is especially related to the digestive tract. The bitter substances contained in it stimulate salivary secretion, gastric juice production as well as the activity of the pancreas, liver and gall bladder. This relieves digestive discomfort and stimulates the movements of the stomach and intestines. In addition, the bitter substances present in centaury have an antibacterial effect. Thus, they inhibit the growth and multiplication of harmful bacteria.
History & Folklore
The bitter-tasting centaury was already highly valued in ancient times. According to Greek mythology, the Centaurus Chiron successfully treated his hard-to-heal wounds with centaury. Hippocrates, Aristotle and Pliny also knew the power of this medicinal plant. They used it as a remedy for stomach ailments.
Habitat & Cultivation
Centaury is native to much of Europe and Asia. It prefers dry, sunny locations such as roadsides or dry meadows. It grows in mostly larger stands on loamy-clayey, nutrient-rich soils. At high altitudes, the medicinal plant can be found up to about 1400 meters. Unfortunately, the wild form of centaury has become rare today. Therefore, in order to avoid its complete extinction, the medicinal plant has been placed under species protection. Wild-growing centaury must not be picked, damaged or uprooted.
Uses
Digestive Remedy Centaury is one of the best medicinal herbs that provide the most effective help for indigestion. The bitter substances contained in the plant help digestion to take place properly and more easily.
Parts used
Stems The stems and flowers of centaury are particularly rich in bitter substances.
Leaves The leaves, on the other hand, contain hardly any bitter substances.
Aerial Parts All above-ground parts of the plant are used for the production of herbal medicines.
Constituents
Flavonoids
Iridoid glycosides
Phenylpropane
Triterpenes
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 206
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