Gentiana lutea

Gentiana lutea is a species of flowering plant in the gentian family, native to the mountains of central and southern Europe. Other names for this species include yellow gentian or bitter root. The plant is harvested for its root, which is used to produce a variety of medicinal products.

Description[edit | edit source]

The Gentiana lutea plant grows to a height of 1–2 m, with broad lanceolate to elliptic leaves 10–30 cm long and 4–12 cm broad. The flowers are yellow, with a five-lobed corolla (petals) 3–4 cm in diameter, and a five-lobed calyx (sepals) 2–3 cm long.

Habitat[edit | edit source]

Gentiana lutea is native to the mountains of central and southern Europe, including the Alps, Pyrenees, and Balkans. It grows in grassy alpine and sub-alpine pastures, usually on calcareous soils.

Uses[edit | edit source]

The root of the plant is used in herbal medicine, with a long history of use in treating digestive disorders. The root is also used to make a type of bitter liqueur.

Medicinal Properties[edit | edit source]

The root of Gentiana lutea contains several active compounds, including secoiridoid glucosides such as gentiopicroside and amarogentin. These compounds are thought to stimulate the production of saliva and gastric juices, improving digestion and appetite.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

Gentiana lutea is a hardy perennial plant that prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. It can be propagated by seed or by division in spring or autumn.

References[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

Gentiana lutea Resources
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