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.
Contra-indications and Cautions
- Caution in peptic ulcer and hyperacidity.
- Overdose may lead to nausea and vomiting.
