For generations, herbalists have prepared celandine-infused oil from the flowering parts of the greater celandine plant (Chelidonium majus). It has traditionally been used externally in homemade skin-care preparations, particularly in ointments for rough skin and certain minor skin concerns.
Today, you’ll find countless recipes online claiming that celandine oil can cure almost anything.
The truth is much more balanced.
While celandine has a long history in traditional herbal medicine, its preparations have not been proven to cure skin diseases, and because the plant contains biologically active compounds, homemade remedies should be used cautiously and only on intact skin unless advised by a qualified healthcare professional.
If you’re interested in traditional herbal preparations, here are two classic methods.
Method 1: Cold Infusion
Ingredients
- Fresh celandine leaves and flowers
- Extra-virgin olive oil (or another skin-friendly carrier oil)
- Clean glass jar
Directions
Wash the plant material and allow it to dry thoroughly so that no surface moisture remains.
Loosely fill a clean glass jar about halfway with the chopped celandine.
Pour in enough olive oil to completely cover the plant.
Seal the jar and leave it in a warm, shaded place for 3–4 weeks, gently shaking it every day.
Strain the oil through cheesecloth and store it in a dark glass bottle.
Method 2: Gentle Warm Infusion
This method is faster.
Ingredients
- Dried celandine
- Olive oil
Directions
Place the dried herb and oil into a heatproof jar.
Set the jar in a saucepan containing warm water (a double boiler).
Heat gently for 2–3 hours, keeping the temperature low enough that the oil never boils.
Allow the mixture to cool before straining.
Store in a dark bottle away from heat and sunlight.
6
Traditional Herbal Ointment
Ingredients
- 100 ml celandine-infused oil
- 10–15 g beeswax
Directions
Warm the infused oil gently using a double boiler.
Add the beeswax and stir until completely melted.
Pour the mixture into clean jars.
Allow it to cool before sealing.
Store in a cool, dry place.
Important safety notes
Celandine contains naturally occurring alkaloids that can irritate the skin.
Before using any homemade preparation:
- Perform a patch test on a small area of skin.
- Do not apply to broken or infected skin.
- Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and other sensitive areas.
- Stop using it if redness, burning, or irritation develops.
Homemade celandine oil or ointments should not be taken by mouth, as celandine has been associated with liver toxicity when ingested.
Better ways to support healthy skin
Healthy skin depends on much more than one herbal preparation.
Daily habits that help include:
- Eating plenty of colorful fruits and vegetables.
- Staying hydrated.
- Wearing sunscreen.
- Sleeping well.
- Avoiding smoking.
- Using gentle moisturizers regularly.
The bottom line
Celandine-infused oil and ointments have been prepared in traditional herbal medicine for centuries and remain popular among herbal enthusiasts for external use. While they have a long history of traditional use, they are not proven treatments for skin diseases or warts, and they should always be used carefully because the plant can irritate the skin.
As with many traditional remedies, the greatest benefits come from thoughtful use, realistic expectations, and combining them with good everyday skin care.
For more amazing natural remedies, check out how this plant removes warts like a laser or boil melon seeds for a grateful body. You might also be interested in this unbelievable pain killer that works like an eraser!
