Chelidonium majus, or greater celandine, has a long history of use in many European countries. Ancient Greeks, Pliny the Elder and Dioscorides all called celandine an effective detoxifying agent. The Romans used celandine as a blood cleanser. The French herbalist Maurice Mességué cited celandine tea for help with liver problems.
Greater celandine extract has strong antioxidant potential, specifically from the alkaloid and flavonoid components. [1] The greatest content of the beneficial alkaloids has been found in the root, sometimes achieving 2-3% concentrations. This has prompted greater celandine to be included in preparations designed to support the biliary tract and liver,  [2] such as Livatrex®, my enhanced blend of herbs that help detoxify and support the normal function of the liver and gallbladder.