Description

Gentian or Gentiana lutea is a herb with unlimited medicinal properties. Its flower originates in the Alps and Himalayas but also grows in Europe, China as well as North America. The herb belongs to the Gentianaceae family and has around 400 different species. It is healthy for the human body because of its distinctive features. Ayurveda uses such bitter foods for the treatment of digestive and liver related illnesses. The gentian root is rich in active compounds like Gentiopicroside and Amarogentin. These compounds give bitter herbs their antimicrobial and antioxidative properties. Also, the herb is widely known for its detoxifying as well as anti-infectious properties in India from thousands of years.

The herb is available in the form of tea, capsule, powder, and tincture. The gentian root can be used to prepare infusions, decoctions along with effective digestive tonics. However, pregnant and lactating women should not use the herb.

Health Benefits

1. Gentian Root Improves Digestive System.

The root stimulates your digestive fire or Agni (as called in Ayurveda). It aids the secretion of enzymes and bile juice that improves digestion. Issues like loss of appetite as well as constipation lead to obesity. But, this bitter herb proves beneficial for weight loss and for a total detox. Bitter foods like gentian also act as a liver tonic.

2. Such Bitter Herbs Reduce Oxidative Stress.

Oxidation in the cells and tissues of an organ is dangerous. It makes the body prone to chronic diseases. Therefore, among many other properties, gentian root contains several essential antioxidants that fight free radicals and prevent oxidative stress.

3. It Cures Inflammatory Pain.

Muscle cramps and inflammation in the body result in pain which sometimes gets unbearable. Therefore, using gentian like bitter foods for their anti-inflammatory properties is a good option. They increase blood circulation decreasing the muscle stiffness.

4. It Treats Infections And Wounds.

Bitter herbs like gentian, when combined with elderberry, helps boost your immunity. Its root is known to have antimicrobial effects which can treat infections like sinusitis as well as other fungal infections. The herb hastens the healing of a wound on the skin as well.

5. Gentian Root Acts As Nervine.

Along with being anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and analgesic, gentian root is also a natural sedative. It calms the central nervous system reducing stress and anxiety. Therefore, it works as an adaptogen herb similar to licorice root.