GENTIAN
Gentian, the dried rhizome and roots of the family Gentianaceae, a moderately tall, perennial herb with an erect stem and large, ovate leaves, is by far the most popular of the bitter stomachics. The plant has large flowers that grow in characteristic orange-yellow clusters. Gentian is a native of the alpine and subalpine pastures of central and southern Europe and is extensively cultivated there. The bitter alcoholic beverage prepared from it has become almost a trademark of specific regions in several European countries. Modern herbalists extol the virtues of gentian far beyond those of a simple bitter. Gentian is believed to be useful in the treatment of exhaustion from chronic disease and in cases of general debility as well. They view it as a strengthener of the human system-in other words, as a tonic. Gentian is also said to be useful as a febrifuge (reduces fever), emmenagogue (stimulates the menstrual flow), anthelmintic (expels intestinal worms), and antiseptic. Gentian is usually consumed in the form of a tea or as one of the commercially available alcoholic extracts. Glycosides known as amarogentin and gentiopicrin are primarily responsible for the bitter taste of gentian. In addition, the plant contains several alkaloids (mainly gentianine and gentialutine), xanthones, triterpenes, and sugars. Aside from its action as a bitter stomachic, none of the other purported effects is well documented in human beings. Some experiments on small animals indicate that gentian may increase the secretion of bile; the alkaloid gentianine also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. Widespread use of gentian as an appetite stimulant and digestive aid would seem to favor the herb as effective for these conditions. In normal individuals, gentian is unlikely to produce undesirable side effects; however, occasional headaches have been reported. Overdoses (greater than 0.1 to 2 g of the medication decocted in 150 ml of water, three times per day), could lead to nausea or vomiting. Use is contraindicated in gastric or duodenal ulcers and hyperacidity. Action of bitter principles - There are 4 main taste receptors on the tongue -sweet, sour, salt, and bitter. It has been shown that the bitter principles in gentian stimulate the bitter taste receptors on the tongue, causing an increase in the production of saliva and gastric secretions. This in turn stimulates the appetite and improves the action of the digestive system in general. Digestive stimulant - By stimulating the action of the stomach, many symptoms associated with a weak digestion such as gas, indigestion, and poor appetite are relieved. Stomach and other secretions are improved, which in turn helps to increase the absorption of nutrients. The herb also acts as a stimulant on the gallbladder and liver; encouraging them to function more efficiently. Gentian is therefore useful in almost any condition where the digestive system needs to be toned up. Gentian is often taken as a digestive tonic in old age. Nutrient absorption - By improving digestive function, gentian increases the absorption of nutrients across the gut wall. It aids the absorption of a wide range of nutrients, including iron and vitamin B12, and is therefore useful for iron-deficiency anemia (usually resulting from blood loss). Gentian is often added to prescriptions for women with heavy menstrual bleeding.
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