A botanical treasure of the mountains

Used since ancient times for its tonic properties, yellow gentian is harvested with respect in high-altitude regions. The richness of its bitter principles makes it a precious plant for both herbalism and the Alpine and Auvergne gastronomic tradition.

Description

Dried root fragments, light brown to dark brown in color, intense odor, very marked bitter taste, fibrous and resistant texture.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Yellow gentian, Great gentian, True gentian
• Latin name: Gentiana lutea
• Family: Gentianaceae
• Part used: Root
• Shape: Cut
• Origin: European mountains (Alps, Massif Central, Pyrenees)
• English name: Yellow gentian root
• German name: Gelber Enzian
• Name in Spanish: Genciana amarilla
• Name in Italian: Genziana gialla
• Name in Arabic: جذور الجنطيانا الصفراء

Main virtues

Traditionally used to stimulate the appetite, prepare digestive bitter drinks and revitalize the body internally through controlled means (after professional advice).

Main constituents

Bitter principles (gentiopicrin, amarogentin), sugars, pectins, traces of essential oils, xanthones.

Use and dosage

• Decoction: 1 teaspoon for 250 ml of water, simmer for 5 minutes, let infuse for 10 minutes (drink in small quantities as an aperitif or after a meal).
• Alcoholic maceration: Used in traditional recipes for aperitif liqueurs, bitter digestifs and homemade bitters (30 g per liter of fruit alcohol).

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Not recommended in cases of gastric ulcers or severe gastritis.
• Moderate use recommended due to the powerful bitter intensity.
• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice.

History and origin

Yellow gentian takes its name from King Gentius of Illyria, who, according to legend, discovered its beneficial properties. Used since Roman times, it still holds a place of honor in European herbal medicine traditions and mountain gastronomy. Its cultivation remains limited and its harvest regulated to preserve mountain biodiversity.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: lined kraft bag or airtight food jar.
• Storage: away from heat, light and humidity.
• Shelf life: up to 3 years under optimal conditions.

Sources and references

• Mountain Medicinal Plants – Traditional Medicinal Flora
• Flora Europaea – Alpine Botany
• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org

🔎 Information

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