Gentian (Gentiana lutea, Gentiana spp.) is one of the most famous bitter herbs, remarkably bitter in all plant parts and with a long history of use in herbal bitter medicines and beverages.
The bitter principles of Gentian, the secoiridoid glycosides amarogentin and gentiopicrin, are also found in other Gentian family member species.
Gentiopicrin is so bitter that it is the compound by which other bitter principles are compared in the strength of their bitterness.
A native European herb, Gentian grows to between 3-6 feet tall with erect stems of yellow flowers and broad lanceolate to elliptic basal leaves.
Since Gentian is also now considered threatened or endangered in some countries, formulators are recommended to move to other herbal bitter species for beverages, such as apéritifs, liqueurs, and tonics.
Gentian is considered GRAS in the US as a flavor. Before the use of hops in beer became widespread, Gentian root was used in the flavoring of beer.
Consistent with herbal bitters, Gentian is an herbal medicine mainly used for digestive problems, such as dyspepsia.
However, it also has a history for a number of other uses such as sinusitis, fever, hypertension, and muscle spasms.
Overall, it is thought to be one of the best overall body-strengtheners in herbal medicine, for people in states of exhaustion and debility, strengthening the digestive system and appetite, and a tonic for the liver and gall bladder.
Through scientific investigation, Gentian has been found to modulate lipid metabolism and to hold good potential as a low-cost medication to prevent obesity and diabetes, and related diseases due to their complications.
An interesting recent study demonstrated that Gentiana lutea extract significantly enhances lipid synthesis in human keratinocytes, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy epidermal barrier. In a clinical trial, topical application of the extract increased skin lipid content, suggesting potential benefits for treating very dry skin and atopic eczema. This effect was linked to the activation of specific cellular pathways, highlighting the plant’s promise in dermatological applications.
*This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.
The Standard for Herbal Bitter Strength. 🌿✊
