In medieval times, gentian was used in an alchemic brew theriac, a cure-all made to a highly secret recipe. Gentiana lutea is the most commonly used species in Europe. The part of the herb used is the root. It is traditionally used as a bitter digestive stimulant, the root is effective for conditions involving poor appetite or sluggish digestion. It is also used in fevers as it is cooling to the system.

Bitter glycosides, gentianic acid, alkaloids, flavonoids

The roots is traditionally used as a bitter, tonic, appetite and gastric stimulant, anti-inflammatory, febrifuge, exhaustion from chronic disease states

Decoction This is traditionally taken before meals for fullness and stomach pains. (Use 10g of the herb to 500ml of water and decoct for 20 minutes)

Tincture This is traditionally used as a digestive stimulant, or in very small doses to allay craving for sweet foods. It can be prescribed for liver disease, gallbladder inflammations and where jaundice is a symptom. (Take up to 2ml three times a day.)

G. Macrophylla

Decoction This is traditionally prescribed for rheumatic pains, fevers and allergic inflammation.

G. Scabra

Decoction This is traditionally prescribed for liver disorders, hypertension and urinary infections.