Spring Gentian

Gentian is commercially available in several forms, the most commonly used being hydroalcoholic tincture. Alcohol-based gentian is available in 500 ml bottles (e.g. from Aroma Plant or Faunus) and contains 20% gentian root extract, ethyl alcohol and still water.

There are also alcohol-free ghințura tincture variants, in the form of a hydroglyceric extract (200 ml, produced by Natura Plant), recommended especially for people with liver disorders or those who avoid alcohol.

These preparations are completely natural, without colourings, preservatives or artificial additives, and are obtained by manual processing.

Ginger tincture is recommended for a wide range of digestive and hepatobiliary disorders:

• Hypoacid gastritis;
• Indigestion, bloating, biliary dyskinesia;
• Mild chronic cholecystitis;
• Anorexia and loss of appetite;
• Combating intestinal worms;
• Regulating gastric secretions;
• Supporting liver function and protecting liver cells;
• Stimulating the central nervous system;
• As a bitter and choleretic-cholagogue tonic.

Thanks to its complex effect, ghințură contributes to the production and elimination of bile, protects the gastric mucosa and supports the general metabolism.

The method of administration varies depending on the form of the preparation and individual tolerance:

• Hydroalcoholic tincture: internal use, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) diluted in 50 ml of water or tea, 3-4 times a day, taken on an empty stomach
• Alcohol-free extract: one tablespoon (approx. 10-15 ml) 3 times a day, 20 minutes before meals, diluted in water.

It is important that the administration is carried out consistently, in a sustained phytotherapeutic regimen, in order to achieve stable and long-lasting effects.

Ghințură tincture is not without contraindications, and its use should be carefully monitored in the following cases:

• Active gastric or duodenal ulcer;
• Hyperacid gastritis;
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• People with intolerance to gentian or other components of the product;
• Patients who are prohibited from consuming alcohol (hydroalcoholic tincture).

In patients with liver disease, it is recommended to use alcohol-free ghințură extract to avoid the potential hepatotoxic effects of ethanol.

In elderly patients or patients with multiple comorbidities, the daily dose should be adjusted individually. In long-term treatments, it is also recommended to take 1-2 week breaks between courses to prevent the body from adapting.

Although generally well tolerated, ghințură tincture may cause some adverse reactions, especially in case of overdose or improper use:

• Gastric irritation;
• Epigastric burning;
• Nausea or vomiting;
• Skin allergic reactions

If these symptoms occur, stop taking the tincture and consult a doctor.

Although there is insufficient data on interactions with ghințură, it is advisable to inform your doctor about any other medicines you are taking, especially those for chronic conditions.

Simultaneous consumption of alcohol may increase the gastric irritant effect of the tincture, and fatty meals may accentuate the choleretic effect. Therefore, a light, balanced diet is recommended during the treatment.

In case of overdose, severe gastrointestinal reactions may occur: abdominal pain, heartburn, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting. In such situations, it is recommended to stop administration, drink plenty of fluids and seek emergency medical attention. There is no specific antidote, and treatment is symptomatic.

Gentian tincture should be stored at room temperature (15-25°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, in the original container, tightly closed to prevent alcohol evaporation. Keep out of the reach of children.

• PubMed, Biological activities and chemical profile of ethanol extracts of Gentiana asclepiadea and Inula helenium
• MDPI, Phenols from the aerial parts of Gentiana lutea L. and their biological activity
• ScienceDirect, Hepatoprotective effects of Gentiana asclepiadea L. extracts against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage in rats
• ScienceDirect, The genus Gentiana: A review of phytochemistry, pharmacology and molecular mechanism