Centaury
Centaurium erythraea
Centaurium erythraea, commonly known as bloody cranesbill, is a traditional plant used in European herbal medicine. It has been traditionally employed for various conditions but specific uses are not well-documented. Scientific studies have shown that Centaurium erythraea aqueous extract exhibits moderate antioxidant, cholinesterase-inhibitory, DNA-protective, and analgesic activities. In vitro, an ointment formulation containing both Transcutol® P and Capryol® 90 from the plant showed significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, with comparable anti-edematous effects in vivo. However, Centaurium erythraea tea demonstrated relatively low antioxidant and antimicrobial activity compared to other tested herbal infusions. No significant anthelmintic effects were observed when evaluating its potential against parasite larvae. Safety profiles for the plant indicate no major issues have been recorded; however, there is currently no evidence of drug interactions.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that Centaurium erythraea aqueous extract shows moderate antioxidant, cholinesterase-inhibitory, DNA-protective, and analgesic activities.
- The study found that ointment formulations containing Centaurium erythraea extract showed promising antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, with one formulation comparable to a methylprednisolone ointment in reducing edema.
- The study found that Centaurium erythraea tea had moderate antioxidant properties among the tested herbal infusions.
- Centaurium erythraea was among the 46 traditional medicinal plant species evaluated for anthelmintic activity, but no specific findings were reported for this particular plant.
Frequently asked questions
What is Centaury?
Centaury (Centaurium erythraea) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Centaury?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Centaury; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that Centaurium erythraea aqueous extract shows moderate antioxidant, cholinesterase-inhibitory, DNA-protective, and analgesic activities.
How strong is the evidence for Centaury?
The strongest finding for Centaury carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Centaury safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Centaury in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Centaury interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Centaury in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Centaury?
Centaury is also known as: Золототысячник обыкновенный.
Is Centaury a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Antioxidant properties and antibacterial activity of selected herbal teas. literature abstract metadata
- T2 In Vitro and in Vivo Efficacy of Different Ointment Formulations Containing Centaurium erythraea Rafn. Aerial Extract. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Anthelmintic Activity of Traditional Medicinal Plants Used in Europe. literature abstract metadata
- T2 LC-ESI-MS/MS-based phytochemical profiling and pharmacological validation of Centaurium erythraea Rafn (Gentianaceae) traditionally used for pain and inflammation. literature abstract metadata