We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Medical Uses of Gentiana Lutea?

By C.B. Fox
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 8,049
Share

Gentiana lutea, which is also commonly referred to as gentian, bitter root or gall weed, is an herb from Europe. It has been used as a remedy for stomach discomfort and loss of appetite hundreds of years. Though many people who take it for this purpose may obtain relief of their symptoms, the side effects of the herb can cause further stomach discomfort, nausea, and vomiting, countering the potential positive effects. The antiseptic qualities of the Gentiana lutea may make it possible for this herb to treat mild infections in the stomach.

The main medical use of the herb Gentiana lutea is for the treatment of gastrointestinal discomfort. Patients who experience mild pain, cramping, nausea, or indigestion can ingest small amounts of an extract made from the root of this plant. When the extract reaches the patient's stomach, it may improve digestion and settle the uneasiness or discomfort that a patient feels.

Additionally, Gentiana lutea has been used in the treatment of anorexia. Though it will not work for patients who have anorexia as the result of a psychological condition, patients with decreased appetite due to illness can benefit from the use of this herb. It is known to increase appetite while making it easier for a person to digest any food that is eaten.

There are also some properties of Gentiana lutea that could make it useful as an antiviral and antibiotic. The roots of this plant have an antiseptic quality that can help rid the digestive system of harmful microorganisms. These effects are not strong, however, and an herbal supplement of Gentiana lutea will not cure serious infections. In patients with ulcers, the use of this herb can make the ulcer worse. Historically, this plant was also used as a remedy for certain poisons, including tobacco poisoning.

Despite its medical uses, Gentiana lutea can have adverse effects on patients. Headaches are a common side effect, though they are rarely severe enough to cause a patient to stop taking the herb. Occasionally, the use of this plant can lead to severe abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. If these conditions occur, patients are advised to discontinue the use of this remedy and to try alternative treatments. The effects of this plant have not been thoroughly studied by medical professionals so patients wishing to start treatment with it should discuss it with a doctor first.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-medical-uses-of-gentiana-lutea.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.