The bitter substances contained in gentian root stimulate the taste buds, which leads to a reflex stimulation of salivary flow and secondarily also to the stimulation of gastric juice and bile flow. All this stimulates appetite and aids digestion.
Gentian extracts also show antimicrobial and immunostimulant properties. Animal experiments have also found evidence that gentian increases the amount of bronchial secretions.
Gentian: side effects and interactions
Occasionally, headache may occur with the use of medicines containing gentian root. No other side effects are known.
Interactions with other remedies are not currently known.
