Centaurium erythraea: Learn All Its Medicinal Uses and Care in Detail
Centaurium erythraeaCentaury, commonly known as centaury, earth gall, or seven-blooded centaury, is a medicinal plant whose properties and traditional uses have captivated both folk medicine and modern phytotherapy. This species, belonging to the Gentianaceae family, is known for its intensely bitter flavor and its versatility in treating various ailments, especially digestive ones. Below, we explore in depth its botanical characteristics, properties, therapeutic applications, cultivation, harvesting, and preservation, along with interesting facts and tips for integrating it into your daily life while respecting its safety and maximum potential.
Botanical Description and Morphology of Centaurium erythraea
Centaurium erythraea It is a biennial herbaceous plant that can reach between 10 and 50 cm in height. It is characterized by presenting stems, usually solitary, although occasionally several stems may appear on the same stem, branching at the top. The stems are quadrangular and not winged, which helps identify the species from other similar ones.
The basal leaves They are arranged in a dense rosette, obovate to elliptical in shape, with an obtuse apex, with 3 to 7 visible nerves. stem leaves, which grow along the stem, are smaller and narrower, lanceolate or elliptical in shape, with a sharp apex and three main veins.
The flowers They are grouped in dense, cymose, corymbiform terminal inflorescences. They have a calyx with five linear teeth with a pointed apex, and a pinkish (sometimes white) funnel-shaped corolla with four distinct lobes. The androecium has stamens inserted into the corolla, whose anthers are observed to spiral after dehiscence. The gynoecium stands out for its superior ovary, with a filiform style and two deciduous stigmas.
El fruit The lesser centaury is a capsule a little longer than the calyx, which opens, releasing small seeds, favoring its local dispersion by shaking or wind.
Common Names and Distribution
- Spanish: Gall of the earth, lesser centaury, seven bleedings
- English: European centaury, feverwort
- Portuguese: Fel of the earth
- Galician: Lesser Centaury
- Asturian: Centaur
- Basque: Lubeazum
- Catalan: Centaur
Geographical distribution: The common centaury is widely distributed throughout Europe, with its abundance particularly evident in the northern part of the Iberian Peninsula. It is found in grasslands, forest clearings, pastures, banks, scrub edges, and moist or loamy soils, although it can also tolerate relatively dry soils. If you'd like to learn more about its cultivation, visit Our article on growing similar medicinal plants.
Taxonomic Classification
- Domain: eukarya
- Supergroup: Archaeplastida
- Division: Chloroplastida
- Division: Streptophyta
- Class: Magnoliopside
- Order: gentianales
- Family: Gentianaceae
- Gender: centaurium
- Species: Centaurium erythraea Rafn
Flowering and Fruiting Season
La flowering Centaurium erythraea's flowering period typically extends from May to September. It is during this period that the flowering tops are collected, which is the part with the highest concentration of active ingredients and the greatest medicinal value. Once collected, the flowers must be dry them quickly in the shade or in a drying room to preserve its color and properties.
Habitat and Ecology
Centaurium erythraea It is a species that prefers poorly permeable, loamy soils that are damp in spring, but is able to survive in quite variable conditions, from clearings and forest edges to pastures, wastelands and even periodically flooded soils. Its ecological optimum is located in Mediterranean climates, although it does reach Atlantic and Central European areas.
As an hemicryptophyte (plants with buds at ground level that survive unfavorable periods) and therophyte (annual that survives in seed), its biology allows it to adapt to different forms of environmental disturbance. It tolerates intense sun exposure, although it can also thrive in somewhat shady areas, and is an indicator of soils rich in bases, with a pH ranging between 5,5 and 8, denoting alkalinity.
As for the dispersion of its seedsThese usually fall near the parent plant, but can be moved locally by wind or animals. If you'd like to learn more about their conservation, check out .
Chemical Composition and Active Ingredients
- Bitter heterosidesThe main one is centapicrin, responsible for its characteristic bitter taste and its appetizing and digestive action.
- alkaloids: Present in traces, they contribute to the overall pharmacological activity of the plant.
- Flavonoids: Powerful antioxidants that promote cellular protection and internal balance.
- Phenolic acids: Anti-inflammatory action and overall benefits for the body.
- Tannins: They provide astringent capacity, with beneficial effects on digestive and skin conditions.
- Mineral salts: Potassium, magnesium and other minerals that contribute to the remineralizing and tonic effect of the plant.
These active ingredients make the lesser centaury a multifunctional plant, with effects on the digestive system, immune system, and even on the skin when used externally. For a deeper understanding of its cultivation and care, it may be helpful to consult our .
Properties and Medicinal Uses of Centaury
- Appetizer and digestive: Stimulates the secretion of gastric and bile juices, facilitating digestion and appetite, ideal in cases of dyspepsia, slow digestion and lack of appetite.
- Liver tonic: It acts as a cholagogue, promoting the production and expulsion of bile, which helps in cases of liver atony or congestion.
- Carminative: Reduces gas formation and relieves flatulence.
- Diuretic and purifying: Increases fluid elimination and contributes to blood purification, with an indirect effect on the kidneys.
- Antipyretic and diaphoretic: Helps reduce fever and promote sweating in cases of mild febrile processes.
- Anti-inflammatory and vulneraryApplied externally, the decoction soothes irritations, wounds, and skin ulcers. It has been traditionally used as a remedy for minor skin lesions and, although without much evidence, even for alopecia due to its revitalizing qualities.
- hypoglycemic: There are traditional references to its use to promote control of blood glucose levels.
- Stimulates the immune system: Thanks to its bitter composition, it contributes to the general strengthening of the body's defenses.
- Combats rheumatism and hypercholesterolemia: Its regular use, linked to tonic-purifying effects, helps in the management of these conditions.
In addition to its digestive and cleansing properties, centaury is included in various herbal preparations and is used in combination with other medicinal plants such as boldo, artichoke, mint, and dandelion, among others, to enhance its effects. For more information on complementary plants, visit .
Therapeutic Applications and Forms of Use
- InfusionThe most common method is an infusion of the dried flowering tops. To prepare a cup, use between 1 and 3 grams of dried plant (approximately one teaspoon) in 200-250 ml of boiling water. Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes, strain, and consume.
- FrequencyIt is recommended to drink one to three cups daily, preferably half an hour before main meals to stimulate appetite and aid digestion. Given its intense bitterness, it can be sweetened with honey and flavored with a dash of anise.
- OctopusThe dried and powdered plant can be taken in 0,25 g capsules, at a rate of 2 to 4 g daily, in several doses before the main meals.
- Decoction for external useFor wounds, ulcers, or skin conditions, boil 60–80 g of the dried plant in 1 liter of water for 10 minutes. Use the liquid in washes or compresses on the affected area.
Among its popular uses, some use it against hair loss by rubbing it on the scalp, although the results are not always satisfactory.
Traditional Associations and Combinations
- Mint and fennel: To enhance the digestive effect and soften the bitter taste in infusions.
- Boldo and artichoke: Improves the hepatobiliary effect, ideal for liver cleansing.
- Dandelion and meadowsweet: Reinforces the diuretic and purifying component.
Centaury is also used in tea formulations designed to balance the body and mind, and in combinations with other herbs for general digestive well-being.
Collection, Preservation and Storage Tips
La optimal harvesting It is done when the flowering tops are at their peak or about to bloom. They should be carefully cut with scissors, avoiding damaging the entire plant to ensure its regrowth or preservation of its habitat.
El drying It is carried out in the shade or in a drying room, ensuring that the flowers maintain their pink color. Proper storage is essential to prevent the loss of active ingredients. Once dried, the useful parts are stored in airtight bags or glass jars, in a cool, dry place away from direct light.
Proper storage ensures that the plant does not lose its therapeutic efficacy or its characteristic aroma.
Care and Cultivation of the Lesser Centaury
- Land: It prefers slightly moist, well-drained soils, rich in organic matter, although it tolerates loamy and slightly alkaline substrates.
- Luz: It needs good light, tolerating both full sun and semi-shade.
- IrrigationModerate, avoiding waterlogging; the plant tolerates some drought if the soil is not excessively compacted.
- Siembra: It propagates by seeds that germinate best when fresh. Sow shallowly, without over-covering, and maintain constant humidity until seedlings emerge.
- Plagues and diseases: Low incidence. To prevent root rot, provide adequate drainage.
- Harvest: The aerial parts are cut when they are in flower.
The lesser centaur is from easy growth and requires little care once established. It can be grown in pots or in a garden, and does not usually present toxicity problems if handled properly.
Indications, Safety and Precautions for Use
- Main indications: Dyspepsia, loss of appetite, slow digestion, flatulence, fever, mild inflammatory processes, superficial wounds and, as a complement, in rheumatism and mild liver conditions.
- ContraindicationsAvoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless prescribed by a doctor. Do not use in children under 12 years of age unless medically advised. Contraindicated in cases of active gastroduodenal ulcer, severe gastritis, or serious liver and kidney conditions.
- efectos secundariosIn high doses, it can cause gastric discomfort due to its bitterness. Always use the recommended dose and consult a healthcare professional if you have chronic illnesses or are taking multiple medications.
- InteractionsCaution when combining with medications for glucose control, digestive system or diuretics.
The plant complements a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, but does not replace specific medical treatments.
Other Traditional and Nutritional Uses
Beyond its medicinal use, lesser centaury is used in liquor production and aperitifs for its intensely bitter flavor, making it a classic ingredient in vermouths and amaros. Due to its aperitif action, it helps improve hunger in people with a lack of appetite.
In herbal medicine, it is usually available as a crushed plant, capsules, or liquid extract, and is sold in medicinal plant markets, herbalists, and specialty stores.
Curiosities, Symbolism and Mythology
The lesser centaury has historically been called “gall of the earth” for its bitter taste, and in ancient times, it was attributed with magical and protective properties. According to legend, the centaur Chiron, famous for his wisdom and medical knowledge, used centaury to heal his own wounds. Hence, its scientific name reflects this mythological root.
In ancient grimoires and magical texts, it was attributed to anti-demonic virtues and was used in protection and healing rituals. Burning a bunch of centaury was believed to ward off negative energies and, under certain conditions, induce visions and altered states of consciousness.
Its presence in European popular culture is a symbol of strength, endurance and health.
Glossary of Important Botanical Terms
- Hemicryptophyte: Plant that keeps its buds at ground level during adverse times.
- Cimoso: Inflorescence in which the flowers appear grouped together forming a kind of corymb.
- Obovate: Egg-shaped leaf, with the widest part at the apex.
- Obtuse: Plant organ that does not end in a point.
- Stigma: Upper part of the gynoecium that receives the pollen.
- Tannic: Substance with astringent properties.
- Infundibuliform: Similar to a funnel.
Conservation and Protection Status
- IUCN Category: Centaurium erythraea is listed as “Least Concern.”
- Population trend: Stable.
- Ecological recommendations: Respect wild harvesting, do not overexploit natural populations, and promote controlled cultivation to prevent the deterioration of local ecosystems.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Lesser Centaury
- What part of the plant is used? Mainly the flowering tops and leaves.
- How is the infusion taken? It is recommended to take it before meals to stimulate appetite and digestion.
- Can it be used externally? Yes, in decoction as washes or compresses for wounds and skin conditions.
- Is it safe for long-term use? Yes, as long as the recommended doses are followed and there are no particular contraindications.
Centaurium erythraea, the lesser centaury, is a plant that combines beauty, history, and medicinal efficacy. From its digestive benefits to its use in rituals and folk customs, this herb symbolizes the connection between nature and human health. By taking precautions and following recommendations, it can be safely integrated into both natural medicine cabinets and medicinal plant gardens, bringing well-being and tradition to those who cultivate and use it.