Gentian Herbal Remedies
Gentian is good for weak and/or painful digestion, loss of appetite, nausea, slow peristalsis, low vital energy, liver heat, detoxification, and acne. As a bitter tonic, gentian is taken 15-30 minutes before meals, usually in combination with other herbs. It has also been indicated for anemia, anorexia, and poor circulation. It is used as an anti-addiction herb (for instance, to stop smoking). Modern research shows that gentian has immune-activating properties, and it is commonly given to people who are recovering from long-term illnesses to improve assimilation of nutrients, energy levels, and immune function. Gentian has a taste of BITTER and a temperature of COLD.
Gentian Proper Dose
| Type | Dossage |
| Gentian Decoction | 1 cup 2-3 x daily |
| Gentian Powder | 1-2 capsules before meals |
| Gentian Tincture | 10-30 drops before meals |
Gentian Reference Information
| Latin Name | Gentiana lutea |
| Other Names | Yellow gentian |
| Part Used | Root |
| Herb Forms | Tincture, capsule, tablet, bulk herb, powder. |
| Affects | Digestive system, Liver |
| Cautions | Contraindicated with hyperacidity, stomach ulcers, and when gastric irritation and inflammation occur. |
| Botanical Info | A tall, stout perennial native to the Alps, with whorls of bright yellow flowers. The root is yellowish-white, fibrous, and very bitter. |
Supporting Research
Blumenthal, Mark et al. 1998. The Complete Commission E Monographs. Austin: American Botanical Council.
Newall, C. et al.. 1996. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press.
Leung, A. and S. Foster. 1996. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients. New York: J. Wiley & Sons.
McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
Bensky, D. and A. Gamble. 1986. Chinese Herbal Medicine. Seattle: Eastland Press.
Madaus, G. 1976. Lehrbuch der Biologischen Heilmittel. Hildesheim: Georg Olms Verlag.
Reynolds, J., ed. 1993. Martindale, The Extra Pharmacopoeia. London: The Pharmaceutical Press.
Parke, Davis & Co. 1910. Manual of Therapeutics. Detroit: Parke, Davis & Co.