Herb & supplement monograph

Greater Celandine Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Greater Celandine interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Greater Celandine is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Greater Celandine is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Greater Celandine Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Greater Celandine drug interaction appears low for most people, although this herb carries its own safety concerns worth knowing. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and all of them rest on lab research, theory, or very limited human data rather than well-documented effects in people.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The concern that stands out most involves medications that can stress the liver, such as certain statins and amiodarone, because greater celandine itself has been linked to many reports of liver injury, and combining it with these drugs could theoretically raise that risk. We would also be careful with immunosuppressants, since a celandine-derived compound may stimulate the immune system and could work against transplant or autoimmune therapy. There is also a theoretical concern that combining it with MAOIs could add to serotonin-related side effects.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of interacting medications looks alarming, but most entries come from a single theoretical concern: lab studies suggest greater celandine may affect an enzyme the body uses to clear many common medications. That effect has not been confirmed in people, so most of these predicted interactions remain unproven rather than established risks.

Check your medications against Greater Celandine

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Greater Celandine interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Greater Celandine

625 medications have a known interaction with Greater Celandine, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
6-mercaptopurinePurinethol
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Preliminary clinical research suggests that taking a specific semi-synthetic derivative of the greater celandine constituent chelidonine (Ukrain; not available in North America) might stimulate immune responses in cancer patients.

Read the full Greater Celandine + 6-mercaptopurine interaction 6-mercaptopurine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Abacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, LamivudineTriumeq
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Abacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, Lamivudine interaction Abacavir Sulfate, Dolutegravir, Lamivudine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Abacavir, LamivudineEpzicom
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Abacavir, Lamivudine interaction
Abiraterone
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Abiraterone interaction Abiraterone drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Abiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Abiraterone Acetate interaction Abiraterone Acetate drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AbrocitinibCibinqo
Moderate Immunosuppressants

Preliminary clinical research suggests that taking a specific semi-synthetic derivative of the greater celandine constituent chelidonine (Ukrain; not available in North America) might stimulate immune responses in cancer patients.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Abrocitinib interaction Abrocitinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acarbose interaction Acarbose drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcebutololRhotral, Sectral
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acebutolol interaction Acebutolol drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcetaminophenChildren's Tylenol, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Tylenol, Tylenol Ex Strength
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen interaction Acetaminophen drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Acetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interaction
Acetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, ButalbitalAxocet, Bancap, Bucet, Butex Forte, Esgic CF, Orbivan CF +5 more
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Butalbital interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interaction Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Research in vitro shows that chelidonine, a constituent of greater celandine, inhibits cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzyme activity.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Research in vitro shows that chelidonine, a constituent of greater celandine, inhibits cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzyme activity.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Research in vitro shows that chelidonine, a constituent of greater celandine, inhibits cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzyme activity.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Research in vitro shows that chelidonine, a constituent of greater celandine, inhibits cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzyme activity.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interaction
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Research in vitro shows that chelidonine, a constituent of greater celandine, inhibits cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzyme activity.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Research in vitro shows that chelidonine, a constituent of greater celandine, inhibits cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzyme activity.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Research in vitro shows that chelidonine, a constituent of greater celandine, inhibits cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzyme activity.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
Moderate Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates

Research in vitro shows that chelidonine, a constituent of greater celandine, inhibits cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzyme activity.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interaction
Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic GG
Moderate Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver.

Read the full Greater Celandine + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interaction
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Greater Celandine combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Greater Celandine affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Greater Celandine is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 4 drug categories Greater Celandine interacts with
Cytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) SubstratesHepatotoxic DrugsImmunosuppressantsMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois)
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Research in vitro shows that chelidonine, a constituent of greater celandine, inhibits cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzyme activity. Theoretically, greater celandine might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Some drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 include amitriptyline (Elavil), clozapine (Clozaril), codeine, desipramine (Norpramin), donepezil (Aricept), fentanyl (Duragesic), flecainide (Tambocor), fluoxetine (Prozac), meperidine (Demerol), methadone (Dolophine), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), olanzapine (Zyprexa), ondansetron (Zofran), tramadol (Ultram), trazodone (Desyrel), and many others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

There is some concern that greater celandine can adversely affect the liver. Greater celandine has been linked to many cases of hepatotoxicity. Theoretically, concomitant use with other potentially hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of developing liver damage. Some of these drugs include acarbose (Precose, Prandase), amiodarone (Cordarone), atorvastatin (Lipitor), azathioprine (Imuran), carbamazepine (Tegretol), cerivastatin (Baycol), diclofenac (Voltaren), felbamate (Felbatol), fenofibrate (TriCor), fluvastatin (Lescol), gemfibrozil (Lopid), isoniazid, itraconazole, (Sporanox), ketoconazole (Nizoral), leflunomide (Arava), lovastatin (Mevacor), methotrexate (Rheumatrex), nevirapine (Viramune), niacin, nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin), pioglitazone (Actos), pravastatin (Pravachol), pyrazinamide, rifampin (Rifadin), ritonavir (Norvir), rosiglitazone (Avandia), simvastatin (Zocor), tacrine (Cognex), tamoxifen, terbinafine (Lamisil), valproic acid, and zileuton (Zyflo).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Preliminary clinical research suggests that taking a specific semi-synthetic derivative of the greater celandine constituent chelidonine (Ukrain; not available in North America) might stimulate immune responses in cancer patients. Theoretically, taking greater celandine might decrease the effects of immunosuppressive therapy. Immunosuppressant drugs include azathioprine (Imuran), basiliximab (Simulect), cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), daclizumab (Zenapax), muromonab-CD3 (OKT3, Orthoclone OKT3), mycophenolate (CellCept), tacrolimus (FK506, Prograf), sirolimus (Rapamune), prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone), and other corticosteroids (glucocorticoids).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)

Theoretically taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) with greater celandine might increase the risk of serotonergic side effects including serotonin syndrome. In vitro research shows that chelerythrine, an isoquinoline alkaloid in greater celandine, strongly, selectively, and reversibly inhibits an isoform of recombinant human monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A). It was also a weak but selective inhibitor of monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B). Some MAOIs include phenelzine (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Greater Celandine: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Greater celandine is a traditional herb most often promoted for digestive and gallbladder complaints, but solid human evidence for any use is lacking. More importantly, it has been linked to serious and sometimes severe liver injury, so most experts advise against taking it by mouth. If you are considering it, talk with your pharmacist or doctor first.

Greater Celandine
Scientific name
Chelidonium majus
Family
Papaveraceae
Part used
Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers), root, and the yellow-orange latex (sap)
Common forms
Capsules, tinctures, dried herb for tea, liquid extracts, and topical preparations
People commonly use it for
  • Digestive and gallbladder complaints
  • Stomach cramps and bloating
  • Topical use for warts and skin growths
  • Liver and gallbladder 'cleansing'
  • Mild pain relief

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallBest avoided

Oral use has been linked to serious, sometimes severe liver damage.

PregnancyInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Greater celandine (Chelidonium majus) is a flowering plant in the poppy family. It has bright yellow flowers and leaves that release a yellow-orange sap when broken. It grows wild across much of Europe and Asia and is often found along roadsides, hedges, and in shady, damp areas.

People have used greater celandine in traditional European and Chinese medicine for a long time. It has been taken by mouth for digestive and gallbladder problems and applied to the skin for warts and other growths. Today it is sold as capsules, tinctures, teas, and topical products.

Despite its long history of use, modern research has raised real safety concerns, especially about its effects on the liver. Because of this, it is not widely recommended by health authorities.

How it works

Greater celandine contains a group of natural compounds called alkaloids, including chelidonine, coptisine, berberine, sanguinarine, and chelerythrine. These are concentrated in the plant's yellow sap and are thought to be responsible for its biological effects.

In laboratory and animal studies, these alkaloids appear to affect smooth muscle (which may explain the traditional use for cramps and gallbladder complaints) and have shown antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cell-related activity. Some of the same compounds may also irritate or damage liver cells.

It is important to understand that most of what we know about how greater celandine works comes from test-tube or animal research. These findings do not always carry over to people, and they do not confirm that the herb is helpful or safe when taken as a supplement.

Effectiveness

Does Greater Celandine work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 2 uses evaluated
1 Possibly effective 1 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.
Possibly Effective Dyspepsia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

A specific combination product containing greater celandine (Iberogast, Medical Futures, Inc) seems to improve symptoms of dyspepsia. The combination includes greater celandine plus peppermint leaf, German chamomile, caraway, licorice, clown's mustard plant, lemon balm, angelica, and milk thistle. A meta-analysis of studies using this combination product suggests that taking 1 mL orally three times daily over a period of 4-weeks significantly reduces severity of acid reflux, epigastric pain, cramping, nausea and vomiting compared to placebo.

Sources Ref 7049 Ref 12724 Ref 13089
Also studied for 1 condition — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cancer
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Preliminary clinical research suggests that injecting a specific semi-synthetic derivative of the greater celandine constituent chelidonine (Ukrain; not available in North America) intravenously helps improve survival of some patients with colorectal, bladder, pancreatic, lung, or breast cancer. However, poor study design makes it difficult to draw conclusions about the efficacy of Ukrain for cancer. Also, some researchers suggest that doses sufficiently high to shrink tumors might be too toxic for clinical use. In addition to assessing Ukrain, some research has assessed the effects of a greater celandine decoction in cancer patients. Some preliminary clinical research suggests that taking 30 mL of an oral solution containing greater celandine twice daily for 2 weeks might have antitumor effects in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Each dose of solution was equivalent to 30 grams of rough herbs.

Sources Ref 13409 Ref 53460 Ref 53472 Ref 53473 Ref 53497 Ref 53498 Ref 13412 Ref 53512

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

The biggest concern with greater celandine is liver damage. Multiple case reports have linked oral use to hepatitis (liver inflammation), and in some cases the injury was severe. Liver problems have happened even at recommended doses and usually improved after stopping the herb, but some cases were serious.

Because of this risk, many experts and regulators advise against taking greater celandine by mouth. People with existing liver disease, those who drink alcohol heavily, and anyone taking medications that affect the liver should be especially careful and avoid it.

Pregnancy: Avoid greater celandine. There is not enough safety information, and its known toxicity makes it unsafe. Breastfeeding: Also avoid, because there is no reliable safety data. If you are pregnant, nursing, have liver problems, or take other medicines, talk with your pharmacist or doctor before using any product that contains greater celandine.

Side effects

The most serious side effect is liver injury. Warning signs can include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, unusual tiredness, nausea, loss of appetite, and pain in the upper right side of the belly. If you notice any of these, stop the product and get medical care right away.

Other reported side effects include stomach upset, cramping, and nausea. The fresh sap can irritate the skin and eyes. Taking large amounts may cause more severe digestive symptoms.

Because liver damage can develop without obvious early symptoms, this is a herb where the potential for harm is a real concern, not just a theoretical one.

Greater Celandine: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Greater Celandine from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally, greater celandine has been implicated in dozens of cases of liver damage. Greater celandine can also cause rash. Greater celandine extract has caused a single case of hemolytic anemia.

Topically, greater celandine can cause contact dermatitis.

Intravenously, a derivative of the greater celandine constituent chelidonine (Ukrain) can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, increased body temperature, general burning sensations, and bleeding.

  1. Benninger J, Schneider HT, Schuppan D, et al. Acute hepatitis induced by greater celandine (Chelidonium majus). Gastroenterology 1999;117:1234-7.
  2. Stickel F, Poschl G, Seitz HK, et al. Acute hepatitis induced by Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus). Scand J Gastroenterol 2003;38:565-8.
  3. Moro PA, Cassetti F, Giugliano G, et al. Hepatitis from greater celandine (Chelidonium majus L.): Review of literature and report of a new case. J Ethnopharmacol 2009;124:328-32.
  4. Stickel, F., Seitz, H. K., Hahn, E. G., and Schuppan, D. [Liver toxicity of drugs of plant origin]. Z.Gastroenterol. 2001;39(3):225-227.
  5. Hardeman, E., Van, Overbeke L., Ilegems, S., and Ferrante, M. Acute hepatitis induced by greater celandine (Chelidonium majus). Acta Gastroenterol.Belg. 2008;71(2):281-282.
  6. Gilca, M., Gaman, L., Panait, E., Stoian, I., and Atanasiu, V. Chelidonium majus--an integrative review: traditional knowledge versus modern findings. Forsch.Komplementmed. 2010;17(5):241-248.
  7. Teschke, R., Glass, X., and Schulze, J. Herbal hepatotoxicity by Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus): causality assessment of 22 spontaneous reports. Regul.Toxicol.Pharmacol. 2011;61(3):282-291.
  8. Teschke, R., Glass, X., Schulze, J., and Eickhoff, A. Suspected Greater Celandine hepatotoxicity: liver-specific causality evaluation of published case reports from Europe. Eur.J Gastroenterol.Hepatol. 2012;24(3):270-280.
  9. Teschke, R., Frenzel, C., Glass, X., Schulze, J., and Eickhoff, A. Greater Celandine hepatotoxicity: a clinical review. Ann.Hepatol. 2012;11(6):838-848.
  10. Pinto, Garcia, V, Vicente, P. R., Barez, A., Soto, I., Candas, M. A., and Coma, A. [Hemolytic anemia induced by Chelidonium majus. Clinical case]. Sangre (Barc.) 1990;35(5):401-403.
  11. Etxenagusia MA, Anda M, Gonzalez-Mahave I, et al. Contact dermatitis from Chelidonium majus (greater celandine). Contact Dermatitis 2000;43:47.
  12. Ernst E, Schmidt K. Ukrain - a new cancer cure? A systematic review of randomised clinical trials. BMC Cancer 2005;5:69.
  13. Gansauge, F., Ramadani, M., Pressmar, J., Gansauge, S., Muehling, B., Stecker, K., Cammerer, G., Leder, G., and Beger, H. G. NSC-631570 (Ukrain) in the palliative treatment of pancreatic cancer. Results of a phase II trial. Langenbecks Arch.Surg. 2002;38
Reports by condition
Anemia Hematologic

Orally, greater celandine extract has caused a single case of hemolytic anemia. This resulted in thrombocytopenia, destruction of liver cells, and kidney failure, requiring treatment.

Intravenously, a derivative of the greater celandine constituent chelidonine (Ukrain) can cause bleeding.

  1. Pinto, Garcia, V, Vicente, P. R., Barez, A., Soto, I., Candas, M. A., and Coma, A. [Hemolytic anemia induced by Chelidonium majus. Clinical case]. Sangre (Barc.) 1990;35(5):401-403.
  2. Ernst E, Schmidt K. Ukrain - a new cancer cure? A systematic review of randomised clinical trials. BMC Cancer 2005;5:69.
  3. Gansauge, F., Ramadani, M., Pressmar, J., Gansauge, S., Muehling, B., Stecker, K., Cammerer, G., Leder, G., and Beger, H. G. NSC-631570 (Ukrain) in the palliative treatment of pancreatic cancer. Results of a phase II trial. Langenbecks Arch.Surg. 2002;38
Cirrhosis Hepatic

Orally, greater celandine has been implicated in dozens of cases of liver damage. The cause is unknown, but appears to be idiopathic. It seems to be independent of dose, and the amount of time before development of liver disease is generally long and variable. The main symptom is usually jaundice. Liver enzymes are elevated at least two-fold in all cases where measurements were completed. Although other causes of liver toxicity cannot be ruled out in some cases, many reported cases of hepatotoxicity are probably or likely associated with the use of greater celandine. Recurrence of hepatitis with unintentional re-exposure has also been reported. Discontinuation of greater celandine usually results in a fairly rapid recovery although liver enzymes need months to return to normal. Death has occurred in one patient with hepatitis due to bleeding associated with colonic diverticulitis. Causality was described as possible, not probable, in this case.

  1. Benninger J, Schneider HT, Schuppan D, et al. Acute hepatitis induced by greater celandine (Chelidonium majus). Gastroenterology 1999;117:1234-7.
  2. Teschke, R., Glass, X., and Schulze, J. Herbal hepatotoxicity by Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus): causality assessment of 22 spontaneous reports. Regul.Toxicol.Pharmacol. 2011;61(3):282-291.
  3. Pantano F, Mannocchi G, Marinelli E, Gentili S, Graziano S, Busardò FP, di Luca NM. Hepatotoxicity induced by greater celandine (Chelidonium majus L.): a review of the literature. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2017 Mar;21(1 Suppl):46-52.
Dermatitis Dermatologic

Orally, greater celandine can cause rash. Topically, greater celandine can cause contact dermatitis.

  1. Stickel F, Poschl G, Seitz HK, et al. Acute hepatitis induced by Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus). Scand J Gastroenterol 2003;38:565-8.
  2. Etxenagusia MA, Anda M, Gonzalez-Mahave I, et al. Contact dermatitis from Chelidonium majus (greater celandine). Contact Dermatitis 2000;43:47.
Diarrhea Gastrointestinal

Intravenously, a derivative of the greater celandine constituent chelidonine (Ukrain) can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, including obstipation, nausea, and diarrhea.

  1. Ernst E, Schmidt K. Ukrain - a new cancer cure? A systematic review of randomised clinical trials. BMC Cancer 2005;5:69.
  2. Gansauge, F., Ramadani, M., Pressmar, J., Gansauge, S., Muehling, B., Stecker, K., Cammerer, G., Leder, G., and Beger, H. G. NSC-631570 (Ukrain) in the palliative treatment of pancreatic cancer. Results of a phase II trial. Langenbecks Arch.Surg. 2002;38
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no well-established, standardized safe dose for greater celandine. Products vary widely in how they are made and how much alkaloid they contain, which makes consistent dosing difficult.

Given the documented risk of liver injury, we do not recommend a specific dose. If you choose to use a product despite these concerns, follow the directions on the label and do not exceed them. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor first, and consider periodic liver tests if your clinician agrees use is appropriate.

Stop using it immediately and seek medical attention if you develop any signs of liver trouble.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Greater Celandine & Pregnancy

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Greater Celandine & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 25 references that drive our Greater Celandine monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. Benninger J, Schneider HT, Schuppan D, et al. Acute hepatitis induced by greater celandine (Chelidonium majus). Gastroenterology 1999;117:1234-7. PubMed
  2. Holtmann G, Madisch A, Juergen H, et al. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial on the effects of an herbal preparation in patients with functional dyspepsia [Abstract]. Ann Mtg Digestive Disease Week 1999 May.
  3. Madisch A, Holtmann G, Mayr G, et al. Treatment of functional dyspepsia with a herbal preparation. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial. Digestion 2004;69:45-52. PubMed
  4. Melzer J, Rosch W, Reichling J, et al. Meta-analysis: phytotherapy of functional dyspepsia with the herbal drug preparation STW 5 (Iberogast). Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2004;20:1279-87. PubMed
  5. Ernst E, Schmidt K. Ukrain - a new cancer cure? A systematic review of randomised clinical trials. BMC Cancer 2005;5:69. PubMed
  6. Stickel F, Poschl G, Seitz HK, et al. Acute hepatitis induced by Greater Celandine (Chelidonium majus). Scand J Gastroenterol 2003;38:565-8.
  7. Etxenagusia MA, Anda M, Gonzalez-Mahave I, et al. Contact dermatitis from Chelidonium majus (greater celandine). Contact Dermatitis 2000;43:47.
  8. Panzer A, Joubert AM, Bianchi PC, Seegers JC. The antimitotic effects of Ukrain, a Chelidonium majus alkaloid derivative, are reversible in vitro. Cancer Lett 2000;150:85-92. PubMed
  9. Moro PA, Cassetti F, Giugliano G, et al. Hepatitis from greater celandine (Chelidonium majus L.): Review of literature and report of a new case. J Ethnopharmacol 2009;124:328-32. PubMed
  10. Stickel, F., Seitz, H. K., Hahn, E. G., and Schuppan, D. [Liver toxicity of drugs of plant origin]. Z.Gastroenterol. 2001;39(3):225-227.
  11. Gansauge, F., Ramadani, M., Pressmar, J., Gansauge, S., Muehling, B., Stecker, K., Cammerer, G., Leder, G., and Beger, H. G. NSC-631570 (Ukrain) in the palliative treatment of pancreatic cancer. Results of a phase II trial. Langenbecks Arch.Surg. 2002;38 PubMed
  12. Nowicky, J. W., Manolakis, G., Meijer, D., Vatanasapt, V., and Brzosko, W. J. Ukrain both as an anti cancer and immunoregulatory agent. Drugs Exp.Clin Res 1992;18 Suppl:51-54.
  13. Staniszewski, A., Slesak, B., Kolodziej, J., Harlozinska-Szmyrka, A., and Nowicky, J. W. Lymphocyte subsets in patients with lung cancer treated with thiophosphoric acid alkaloid derivatives from Chelidonium majus L. (Ukrain). Drugs Exp.Clin Res 1992;18
  14. Nowicky, J. W., Staniszewski, A., Zbroja-Sontag, W., Slesak, B., Nowicky, W., and Hiesmayr, W. Evaluation of thiophosphoric acid alkaloid derivatives from Chelidonium majus L. ("Ukrain") as an immunostimulant in patients with various carcinomas. Drugs Ex
  15. Gansauge, F., Ramadani, M., Schwarz, M., Beger, H. G., Lotspeich, E., and Poch, B. The clinical efficacy of adjuvant systemic chemotherapy with gemcitabine and NSC-631570 in advanced pancreatic cancer. Hepatogastroenterology 2007;54(75):917-920.
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Greater Celandine

7 brands in our database make a supplement containing Greater Celandine.

Product directory

Supplement products with Greater Celandine

11 products in our database contain Greater Celandine. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Greater Celandine: Common Questions

What is Greater Celandine used for, and does it work?
People use Greater Celandine for many reasons, but the evidence varies by use. According to the Natural Medicines database, there is at least some clinical evidence supporting Greater Celandine for Dyspepsia. For most other uses it has been studied for, the evidence is currently insufficient to rate. See the graded list on this page, and always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Does Greater Celandine interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 625 medications with a known interaction with Greater Celandine. Use the checker above to see how Greater Celandine interacts with a specific drug.
How are Greater Celandine interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Greater Celandine with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Greater Celandine interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Greater Celandine used for?
It is traditionally used for digestive and gallbladder complaints, stomach cramps, and applied to the skin for warts. However, strong human evidence for these uses is lacking.
Is Greater Celandine safe to take?
It carries a real risk of liver damage and is not considered safe for most people to take by mouth. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before using any product that contains it.
Can I take Greater Celandine while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. There is not enough safety information, and the herb's known toxicity makes it unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What are the warning signs of a problem with Greater Celandine?
Stop using it and seek medical care if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, severe tiredness, nausea, or pain in the upper right belly, as these can be signs of liver injury.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Keep exploring

Products that contain Greater Celandine

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Greater Celandine — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

See all 11 products with Greater Celandine →
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