-IBIS-1.5.0-

rx

herb

Centaurium erythraea (Centaury)

botanicals

definition

botanical name(s): Centaurium erythraea

synonyms: centaury

part(s) used: herb

qualities:

affinities:

actions:

dosage:

» tincture: 2 - 4 ml.

therapy:

AHPA Botanical Safety Rating: 1

toxicity: 1

» bitter glycosides, the sesquiterpene lactones, cause oro-mucosal irritation and gastritis; a large amount acts as a nauseant and emetic (Spoerke, p. 56, Nes et al)

» caution is advised during pregnancy; cases of nigropallidal encephalomalacia have occurred in horses; although this does not necessarily suggest a toxicity in humans, it has not been ruled out (Keeler and Tu, pp. 572-573)

constituents: sesquiterpene lactones

footnotes

Keeler, R.F., and Tu, A.T. 1983. Handbook of Natural Toxins. New York: Marcel Dekker, Inc.

Nes, W.D., Fuller, G., Tsai, L.S. 1984. Isopentenoids in Plants. New York: Marcel Dekker, Inc.

Spoerke Jr., D.G. 1980. Herbal Medications. Santa Barbara, CA: Woodbridge Press Publishing Co.