Swallowtail (Chelidonium majus)

Other names: nipple

Swallowtail, also known as the wartwort, is a plant belonging to the poppy family that is widespread in the temperate northern hemisphere. This annual to perennial herb grows to a height of 30 to 100 cm and is characterised by its bright yellow flowers. The leaves of the swallowtail are simple, blade-shaped, with deep longitudinal lobes and have a characteristic, somewhat unpleasant smell. In spite of this, swallowwort is used in many areas, often in medicine, but also in cosmetics or gastronomy.

In traditional medicine in particular, the extract of the swallowwort is used to treat skin problems such as warts, eczema or skin ulcers, hence the name wartwort. The latex contained in this plant has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Ointments or tinctures are also made from the swallowwort to help with skin problems. In gastronomy, the young leaves and flowers of the greater celandine are used to make salads, for example. However, it is important to point out that the swallowwort contains several poisonous alkaloids, and its use should therefore be consulted with a specialist. In cosmetics, its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties are used, which is why it is often found in hand creams, nourishing masks and skin tonics, for example.