gentian flower

Gentian

Gentiana lutea – root

Famously used as a bitter digestive tonic, gentian stimulates the appetite and digestion by promoting the production of saliva, gastric juices and bile.

These actions make it useful for a sluggish digestive system as seen in dyspepsia and flatulence. It is a component of alcoholic aperitifs which are served before meals to stimulate appetite, as well as digestifs, which are served after meals to aid digestion.

Actions

Primary: bitter tonic, sialogogue, cholagogue.

Indications

  • Loss of appetite, indigestion, gas.
  • Facilitate improved digestion during convalescence or fatigue, and after mild feverish conditions.
  • Relief of mild diarrhoea.
  • Caution in peptic ulcer and hyperacidity.
  • Overdose may lead to nausea and vomiting.

The analysis of contents below is a guide only, product specific data including expiry date is with the item in the shop.

Gentiana lutea 1:2. Each 1 ml contains 500mg of dry herb.

Liquid extract in 45% ethanol. Use 5 to 15 ml weekly.

Our clinic uses fluid extracts from Optimal Rx, Herbal Extract Company, Nutrition Care, Mediherb or Sunray Botanicals, in this order.