Gentian: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Gentian (Gentiana lutea) is a plant that grows in the mountains in Europe. It's often known as bitter wort or bitter root. Its roots are used as medicine.

Gentian contains chemicals that might reduce blood pressure by widening blood vessels. It might also have effects that reduce appetite.

People use gentian for diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse gentian with Canadian hemp, which is also called bitter root. These are not the same. Also note that the highly toxic white hellebore (Veratrum album) can be misidentified as gentian. It has caused accidental poisoning when used in homemade preparations.

Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for Gentian overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Gentian root preparations are commonly consumed in foods. Gentian root is possibly safe when used in a specific combination product containing gentian root, elderflower, verbana, cowslip flower, and sorrel (SinuComp, Sinupret). It seems to be well-tolerated. Side effects might include skin reactions and stomach upset. But there isn't enough reliable information to know if gentian is safe or what the side effects might be when taken as medicine alone.

When applied to the skin: There isn't enough information to know if gentian is safe or what the side effects might be.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if gentian is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Surgery: Gentian might affect blood pressure, which might interfere with blood pressure control during and after surgery. Stop using gentian at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

Medications for high blood pressure (Antihypertensive drugs) interacts with Gentian
Gentian might lower blood pressure. Taking gentian along with medications that lower blood pressure might cause blood pressure to go too low. Monitor your blood pressure closely.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of gentian might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

View References

REFERENCES:

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Gentian - Uses, Side Effects, and More