Gentian Root

Common Name:

Gentian Root

Botanical Name:

Gentiana lutea

Short Description:

Gentian is a classic bitter tonic used to stimulate digestion, bile flow, and nutrient absorption. It is particularly helpful in cases of poor appetite, sluggish digestion, and liver stagnation.

Parts Used:

Root (dried)

Actions:

Bitter tonic, cholagogue, hepatic, sialagogue, stomachic

Energetics:

Cooling, drying, bitter

Body Systems:

Digestive, liver, endocrine

Spiritual/Energetic Uses:

Clears energetic stagnation in the gut and supports clarity of purpose. Gentian helps awaken one’s inner fire and sharpen focus when motivation is weak or digestion—physical or emotional—is sluggish.

Planetary/Dosha Associations:

Planetary: Mars and Saturn
Dosha: Balances Kapha and Pitta; may aggravate Vata

Safety Notes:

Very strong—best used in small doses. Avoid in cases of active ulcers, dry constitution, or excessive acidity. Not for use in pregnancy. Best taken 10–20 minutes before meals.