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Feature

Origin: France
typically prepared as bitters, teas, tonics, and tinctures.

Description

Common Name Standardized: gentian Other: yellow gentian Botanical Name Gentiana lutea L. Plant Family: Gentianaceae Overview Introduction Gentian is an herb of the high pastures of the Alps and the Himalayas. The roots take 7 to 10 growing seasons to mature. The botanical name Gentiana is derived from Gentius, king of ancient Illyria (modern day Bosnia) (180-167 B.C.E.), who discovered its therapeutic values, according to a history written by Pliny the Elder (ca. 23-79 C.E.) The herb has been used in European herbal medicine throughout the 2200 years since its discovery. Constituents Bitter principles (amarogentin, gentiopicroside) and the bitter-tasting gentiobiose, which is so bitter that it can be tasted even if it is diluted with 58,000,000 times its volume of water. Parts Used Dried, mature root. Typical Preparations Bitters, teas, tonics, and tinctures. Precautions Specific: Use with caution in persons with gastrointestinal irritation and duodenal ulcers. General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.