Gentian
Gentiana
macrophylla root
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Vitaklenz: 180mg
Vitaklenz for Kidz: not present
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Gentian is a tall, attractive perennial plant native to the mountainous areas of central and southern Europe. It may grow up to 140 cm (55 in) high with a single stem (no branches) from which long bluish-green leaves emanate in opposite pairs. On the upper section of the plant these turn into saucer-shaped subtending leaves from which the long stemmed flowers appear. In early autumn or fall the root of the gentian plant is dug up and dried (4) (5).
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The most common medicinal uses for gentian include treating digestive orders such as loss of appetite, fullness and flatulence. It is however used for a variety of other purposes, such as reducing fever, eradicating parasitic worms and as a general tonic (roborant) (1) (2) (3).
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Root extracts of gentian have antifungal activity, are anti-inflammatory, and have immunostimulating activities (6).
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References:
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Blumenthal M, et. al. ed.The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines.Austin:American Botanical Council,1998.
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Foster S, Tyler VE.Tyler’s Honest Herbal: A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies.Fourth Edition.New York: The Haworth Herbal Press,1999.
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Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K.Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database.Third Edition.Stockton, California: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2000.
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Chevallier A.Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.Revised Edition.Sydney, Australia:Dorling Kindersley.2001.
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Dorfler HP, Roselt G.The Dictionary of Healing Plants. New York, NY:Blandford Press.1989.
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Barnes J, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD, Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. Second Edition. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 2002.
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