Centaurium erythraea
Centaury
Centaurium erythraea is a rather modest-looking plant, which is not indicative of its intense and intrusive bitter taste, a Gentianaceae family trait.
A Beloved Bitter
In herbalism, centaury is a plant that can be used for a wide range of concerns. It is considered a blood-cleansing herb (alterative) with an affinity for the liver and kidneys, and as an aromatic bitter and tonic it supports digestion and overall health.
It has been frequently used both internally and externally throughout history, with the most common use of the plant today being internally for its bitter actions.
The herb contains secoiridoid glycosides (mainly swertiamarin, sweroside, and gentiopicroside), bitter components that are characteristic of the Gentianaceae family.
Centuary was coined “the service flower” by Dr. Edward Bach, and its flower essence is used for those who are so innately helpful that their own personality is unable to evolve and flourish outside of their need to please everyone around them.
In an interesting connection to the herb’s use as a flower essence, an inability to say no is associated with weakness in the gallbladder since this organ is linked to one’s will and courage in Chinese medicine (Wood, 2008).
“Centaury may be used whenever a digestive and gastric stimulant is needed.”
- David Hoffmann, Medical herbalism: The science and practice of herbal medicine.