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Therapeutics and Pharmacology of Gentian.Radix
The secoiridoid bitter principles, particularly amarogentin, stimulate gustatory receptors in the taste buds, causing a reflex increase in the secretion of saliva, gastric juice and bile, thereby stimulating the appetite.
Amarogentin is one of the most bitter substances known. It also accelerates emptying of the stomach and improves gastric tone, so that heavy food is more easily digested. Gentiana contains no tannin, so there is no astringent or irritant effect. One of its alkaloids, gentianine, has been shown to be anti-inflammatory. The fresh leaves placed on wounds and inflammations act as a refrigerant; and they also make soothing footbaths.
Action of bitter principles-There are 4 main taste receptors on the tongue -sweet, sour, salt, and bitter. It has been shown that the bitter principles in gentian stimulate the bitter taste receptors on the tongue, causing an increase in the production of saliva and gastric secretions. This in turn stimulates the appetite and improves the action of the digestive system in general.
Digestive stimulant-By stimulating the action of the stomach, many symptoms associated with a weak digestion such as gas, indigestion, and poor appetite are relieved. Stomach and other secretions are improved, which in turn helps to increase the absorption of nutrients. The herb also acts as a stimulant on the gallbladder and liver; encouraging them to function more efficiently. Gentian is therefore useful in almost any condition where the digestive system needs to be toned up. Gentian is often taken as a digestive tonic in old age.
Nutrient absorption-By improving digestive function, gentian increases the absorption of nutrients across the gut wall. It aids the absorption of a wide range of nutrients, including iron and vitamin B12, and is therefore useful for iron-deficiency anemia (usually resulting from blood loss). Gentian is often added to prescriptions for women with heavy menstrual bleeding.
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