The bitter iridoglycosides contained in centaury lead to increased salivation and increased secretion of digestive juices, which overall stimulates appetite and has a beneficial effect on digestion. Positive effects on the liver have also been shown for alcohol extracts of the drug.
Other effects of centaury.
Animal studies have further demonstrated certain anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects. Swertiamarin and sweroside also show antibacterial activity, but only against certain bacteria such as Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis.
Centaury: side effects
Currently, there are no known side effects or interactions with other agents when taking centaury.