Gentian yellow

Authors: Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer, Prof. Dr. med. Martina Bacharach-Buhles

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Last updated on: 25.04.2024

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Definition
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The yellow gentian belongs to the gentian family. The plant grows up to 1.40 m high. The flowers are yellow and bloom from June to August.

The fresh root(Gentianae radix), which can grow up to 1 m long, is used. The root can be used to make brandy, and the alcoholic aqueous extracts of the root contain bitter substances, which is why it is often used to make aperitif drinks (Alpine bitters, gentian bitters).

The quality of gentian root (Gentianae radix) is specified in the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.).

In addition to the rhizome, the roots (gentian root - Gentianae radix) are also used phytotherapeutically.

HMPC monograph: Traditional use: loss of appetite, mild dyspeptic, gastrointestinal complaints
ESCOP monograph: bitter remedy, loss of appetite, digestive complaints
Commission e-monograph: loss of appetite, digestive complaints, dyspeptic complaints, bloating, flatulence.

Gentian is also traded in the form of tea, extract, fluid extract, tincture and wine preparations, as well as essence in herbal liqueurs, bitters and for distilling gentian schnapps.

Literature
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  1. https://arzneipflanzenlexikon.info/enzian.php
  2. Wenigmann M. (2017) Phytotherapy medicinal drugs, phytopharmaceuticals, application. Urban & Fischer, pp. 101-102
  3. https://pflanzen.fnr.de/industrialplants/arzneipflanzen/pflanzen-datenbank.