Common centaury

• TeaAerial partsInternalTraditional use

  Classic bitter tea (amarum) for loss of appetite and mild digestive complaints — taken before meals.

  Preparation & dosage

  INFUSION: Pour 200 ml boiling water over 1–4 g of the comminuted herb, cover and steep about 10 minutes, then strain; up to 4 times daily. For loss of appetite, traditionally taken about half an hour before meals — the bitters stimulate saliva and gastric juice. If complaints last more than 2 weeks, consult a doctor.

  Dry amount

  1–4 g

  Doses per day

  4×

  Max duration

  2 weeks

  ⚠ Age restriction: ≥ 18 years — Use in children and adolescents under 18 not recommended.

  Sources: [1]

• TinctureAerial partsInternalTraditional use

  Concentrated bitter tincture to stimulate appetite and digestion.

  Preparation & dosage

  TINCTURE: 1.5–5 g (ml) single dose, up to 3 times daily, before meals in a little water. A concentrated bitter form. Due to the alcohol content, not for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, or people with liver disease.

  Liquid amount

  1.5–5 ml

  Doses per day

  3×

  Max duration

  2 weeks

  ⚠ Age restriction: ≥ 18 years — Alcohol-containing tinctures only for adults from 18 years.

  Sources: [1]

Do not use in case of gastric or duodenal ulcers — the bitters stimulate gastric acid. Use only with caution in case of heartburn/hyperacidity or under acid-reducing therapy. If complaints last more than 2 weeks or worsen, consult a doctor. Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation or in children and adolescents under 18 due to lack of data. NATURE PROTECTION: Common centaury is specially protected in Germany — do not collect it in the wild; use only cultivated or pharmacy material.

⏱ Max continuous use: 2 weeks