Gentian root (Gentiana lutea) is used in Europe for treating indigestion, heartburn, flatulent colic and intestinal gas.
Gentiana lutea (Bitterwort, Yellow gentian) is a perennial plant native to Europe. Gentian root has been used in Europe as a herbal medicine for centuries. The root is collected in the late summer and autumn, then dried for later use.
The root of gentiana lutea is very bitter, hence it is used as a bitter tonic to improve digestion. Gentian root is traditionally used to stimulate digestive system, treat loss of appetite, indigestion, flatulence, stomach ache, and increase nutrient absorption. It is also used to treat the liver and gall bladder problems.
Gentian root contains amarogentin (secoiridoid glycosides amarogentin), gentiopicroside (gentiopicrin), swertiamarin, sweroside, xanthones (gentisin, isogentisin, gentioside), phytosterols, phenolic acid, trisaccharides (gentianose) and polysaccharides (pectin). Secoiridoid glycosides amarogentin is one of the most bitter compounds found in natural herbs. The bitter taste in the root is mainly caused by this compound.
As a bitter tonic, gentian root is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, cholagogue, anthelmintic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, refrigerant and stomachic. According to the traditional medical theories, a herb with bitter properties usually has effects to help treat liver and gall bladder complaints, reduce gastric infections, and help regulate functions of the digestive system. Bitter herbs usually have astringent, cleansing, cooling (anti-inflammatory) properties, thus can help reduce inflammation and lower fevers.
Studies have shown that gentian root stimulates the appetite, promotes the secretion of saliva and gastric juices, and accelerates the emptying of the stomach, thus it relieves the conditions of indigestion and heartburn. Many digestive disorders, such as upset stomach, loss of appetite, flatulence, gastric ulcers, can be caused by or associated with liver and gall bladder problems. If this is the case, then the bitter root of gentiana lutea can be beneficial to the treatment. As a liver tonic, gentian root reduces liver heat and promotes the flow of saliva, gastric juices and bile as a reflex via the nervus vagus.
How to use gentian root
Gentian root can be used to make a tea.
– Dried gentian root powder 1/2 teaspoon
– Boiling water 1 cup
– Cover and steep for 15 minutes
– Strain
– You may add sugar or honey to alleviate the bitter taste
– Drink it, 2-3 times a day before meals
If you feel it is too bitter, you can put the powder into capsules and take with water.
Gentian root can be used to make a tincture. Gentian root is one of the key ingredients in Angostura bitters, which is made of water, 45.6% alcohol, gentian root, and other ingredients.
Gentian root can be also combined with other herbs. For example, for treating indigestion and heartburn, a formula made of gentian root, cayenne, ginger root and wormwood is very effective.
Although gentian root is considered as a safe herb, but over dose may raise blood pressure or blood sugar. Anyway, before taking gentian root, speak to your health care provider to make sure it is safe for you.
Read more information about natural remedies for indigestion.
