Evidence supporting the use of: Gentian root
For the health condition: Ulcers

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Gentian root (Gentiana lutea) has a long history of use in traditional European herbal medicine, primarily as a bitter tonic to stimulate appetite and digestion. Its application for ulcer support or treatment stems from its general use in treating gastrointestinal complaints, including dyspepsia, loss of appetite, and indigestion. The rationale in traditional medicine is that gentian’s bitter compounds (mainly secoiridoid glycosides like gentiopicroside) stimulate saliva and gastric secretions, which can aid in the digestive process. However, its use specifically for ulcers is more indirect—gentian is sometimes included in formulas aimed at “strengthening” the stomach, under the belief that improved digestion may reduce the likelihood of ulcer formation.

Scientific evidence for gentian root in treating or healing ulcers is limited. In fact, the increased gastric acid secretion it promotes could, in theory, exacerbate certain types of peptic ulcers, particularly those related to excess stomach acid. There are some in vitro and animal studies suggesting potential anti-inflammatory and mucosal-protective effects of gentian extracts, but these are preliminary and generally not directly related to ulcer healing. No robust human clinical trials support gentian root as a therapy for gastric or duodenal ulcers. Most modern herbalists use gentian root to support digestion rather than to treat active ulcers, and caution is advised for those with existing ulcer conditions.

In summary, while gentian root is traditionally used for digestive health, its specific use for ulcers is based more on historical than scientific grounds, and its safety in active ulcers is questionable.

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