Great Yellow Gentian Root

Great yellow gentian root Gentiana lutea L. belongs to Gentianaceae family. In Poland it is not present naturally, but there are attemptions at cultivatiing it. Medicinal raw material of the plant is massive underground parts – the root with the rhizome Gentianae radix. The name “gentian” indicates the active substances contained in the root – bitters (secoiridoids), such as gentianopicrin, gentianomarin and amarogentin – the most bitter natural substance known. Additionally the raw material contains sugar, mucus and essential oils. Great yellow gentian root is traditionally used in mild indigestion and gastrointestinal disorders. It stimulates appetite and the secretion of digestive juices and bile.