Scientific name
Gentiana lutea
Family
Gentianaceae
Origin
Central-southern Europe
Parts Used
Drug given by gentian roots harvested in autumn between the second and fifth year (Official Pharmacopoeia)
Chemical constituents
- Bitter glucosides (gentiopicrin, amarogentina and gentiacaulina);
- Yellow coloring substance (gentisin);
- Mucilage;
- Essential oil;
- Alkaloids.
Gentian in Herbal Medicine: Property of the Gentian
Gentian is used in various formulations to promote digestion, as it increases gastric motility and the hydrochloric secretion of the stomach, by direct action and by reflex mechanism (vagal stimulation). Furthermore, gentian finds application in the treatment of anorexia, gastric atony, long and laborious digestions and children's lack of appetite.
