Habitat:

Gentian belongs to the large plant family Gentianaceae. It is believed to be native to Europe and is the largest species of the family. It is found in the southern and central mountainous regions of Europe from Spain to the Balkans. It prefers altitudes from 2,300-8,000 feet, (700-2400 meters), with shady or sheltered sites on loamy soil. It may be easily cultivated from either seed or by splitting the large root crowns.The underground parts are harvested in the fall, sliced and dried slowly. The drying process develops the odor, color, and taste of this traditional medicinal herb.

Plant Description:

Gentian has a cluster of fragrant orange-yellow flowers, erect stems and smooth oval leaves. It is a perennial that grows to a height of 1.8 meters. The roots and rhizomes are sometimes branched, varying in thickness from 5 to 40 mm and nearly cylindrical. The color ranges from dark brown to light tan; the darker roots appear to have a more pronounced bitter taste.

Plant Parts Used:

Root

The medicinal part of the plant:

For medicinally purpose roots of older plants are collected in the fall or early spring. The fresh root has an unpleasant odor, and the odor of the dried root is aromatic. It is worth it dry quickly – and this can be achieved if it is cut to length. It has a long history of use as bitters, used to promote the appetite and digestion by general stimulation of the digestive juices. Gentian, as with all bitters, is important in traditional herbal medicine as a remedy for physical and mental exhaustion. It is a traditional herbal remedy for symptoms of sluggish digestion, such as dyspepsia and flatulence. The herb is used as a blood builder, traditionally used convalescence. It is used as a natural herbal treatment for gaining weight, anorexia, and exhaustion. Gentian is believed to strengthen the entire system by stimulating the digestive function as well as the general circulation and the activity of many glands and organs. The herb is used as a liver tonic and to stimulate an insufficient production of gastric juices, bile, and saliva. It is used to alleviate inflammations in the gallbladder.

Cautions:

Please be aware that herbs, although natural can interact with certain medications, and that they may be ill advised to use under certain health conditions. Please consult a qualified health practitioner for cautions pertinent to you.

No therapeutic claim is made or intended for AZENA products. Information is for educational purposes only.