Gentian

Figure 1. The Gentiana verna plant.

Gentian is an herb belonging to the genus of flowering plants Gentianaceae. With about 400 species Gentianaceae is considered a large genus. Gentian is notable for its mostly large, trumpet-shaped flowers, which are often of an intense blue colour although they grow in yellow and other colours too (e.g. Gentiana lutea, the Great Yellow Gentian).

The root of the Gentian plant is historically used in traditional medicine. The root has a bitter taste. The bark of the Gentian plant is sometimes used in traditional medicine too, but less commonly so. These medicines are used to fight inflammation and swelling in the liver, spleen, and stomach, treat infected wounds, and serve as an antidote to animal poison. The roots can be dried and made into pills, teas, tinctures, and extracts. In traditional settings, Gentian can be taken as a digestive tonic to stimulate stomach, liver, and gallbladder functions.

Figure 2. Amarogentin and Gentiopicrin, the bitter glycosides from the Gentian root.

Today, Gentian is used in dietary supplements for its main active compounds iridoids, secoiridoids, xanthones, and flavonoids. These compounds produce anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects within the body. For example, Gentian may be used to help with rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory condition which leads to pain, inflammation, and swelling in the joints.

Gentian may be used to help alleviate sinus infections including congestion, headaches, and facial pain, sometimes in combination with other herbs (e.g. European elderflower, verbena, cowslip flower, sorrel). Gentian may help increase appetite and offer protective effects for the digestive system (e.g. against bloating, diarrhoea, and heartburn) due to its bitter substances which may help stimulate the body to secrete saliva and gastric juices. 

Possible side effects may include skin rash and upset stomach.