Products
Preparations from the gentian root are commercially available in the form of drops, tinctures, tablets, dragées and as tea, among others. The medicinal drug is available in pharmacies and drugstores.
Stem plant
Yellow gentian L. of the gentian family (Gentianaceae) is also native to the Swiss Alps. It should not be confused with white germer or blue gentian.
Medicinal drug
The gentian roots (Gentianae radix), the dried, crushed underground organs of L. The medicinal drug has a strong and persistent bitter taste, which is still perceptible even when extremely diluted. Ethanolic extracts and tinctures are prepared from the roots.
Ingredients
Ingredients include:
- Bitters: secoiridoid glycosides: gentiopicroside, amarogentin.
- Xanthone derivatives
- Carbohydrates: gentianose, gentiobiose
- Low percentage of essential oil
Effects
Preparations from gentian root stimulate appetite and stimulate gastric juice, bile and digestive juice secretion. They promote digestion and are also antioxidant and antimicrobial.
Indications for use
Indications for use include:
- Dyspeptic complaints (digestive disorders).
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling of fullness, nausea
- Abdominal pain, flatulence
Gentian root is also used in the preparation of gentian schnapps (“gentian”).
Dosage
According to the directions for use. Medicines are usually taken before meals. The medicinal drug can be prepared as an infusion or as a cold macerate.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Stomach and intestinal ulcers
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include headache.
