Gentian root

Gentian thrives best high up in the mountains. In the airy heights of the mountain ranges, many representatives of this plant genus feel most at home – in the temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere as well as in the South American Andes.

300 to 400 species belong to the gentians, which grow as annual or biennial herbs. In this country, they are protected by nature conservation laws. Therefore, you are not allowed to pick the plant or dig up the gentian root.

The healing effects for which gentians have been used since the Middle Ages are due to the root of this delicate plant. The gentian root mainly contains bitter substances. The root of the yellow gentian even contains the most bitter substances nature has to offer worldwide: amarogentin with its bitter-sharp taste. In addition, gentian roots contain coloring and tannin substances as well as tannic acid, plenty of carbohydrates and essential oil.

Many gentian species adorn numerous gardens with their beautiful flowers. However, some species have a healing effect originating from the gentian root. The yellow gentian, in particular, stands out as a medicinal plant. Its bitter substances, which enrich our BitterKraft! alongside other compounds, are said to stimulate digestion and increase appetite. Gentian root is also believed to be effective in treating colds. For example, mucolytic herbal medicines often contain gentian root.

Gentian root is recommended to be taken as tea or drops. Additionally, gentian root is also used to produce schnapps, giving the spirit its distinctive bitter-sharp note.

“So blue, blue, blue blooms the gentian,” sang Heino in 1973. The pop star was praising the true Alpine gentian, which stands out with its bright blue color – as intense as it rarely occurs in nature. The yellow gentian, on the other hand, whose root is important for medicinal purposes, shines yellow as its name suggests. Pink, red, violet, and red are other colors in which different gentian species bloom. Typical for gentian are its large trumpet- to funnel-shaped leaves.

The beauty of the gentian has not only been praised in songs. Its flowers have also been the subject of many pictures. Its rare pure blue flower color has made the blue gentian a symbol of loyalty.