The root of gentian stimulates the salivary glands and the digestion, while the flowers of this fantastic plant have long excited the gardener and the alpine hiker.
The genus Gentiana is extremely diverse, represented by over 200 distinct species worldwide. The plants are distributed globally, mainly occurring in alpine regions. The genus Gentiana extends across the temperate regions of Asia, Europe and North and South America, largely in mountainous areas.
The genus was named after King Gentius of Illyria (180-167 B.C.), the last Illyrian King who discovered the medicinal benefits of Gentiana. The plant was primarily used for cleaning wounds and to stimulate appetite.Gentiana symbolizes passion, charm, loveliness and sweetness.
Gentiana plants have been used in herbal medicine to treat menstrual bleeding, conjunctivitis, vitiligo, insect and snake bites, wounds, fever, muscle spasms and digestive problems. The plant has also been used to fight against anorexia, flatulence, nausea, anemia and depression.
Gentiana is included in weight-loss products, perfumes and skin care products.
Some species are the source of a flavoring in liqueurs. Gentian liqueurs originated in the historical French region of Auvergne, where Gentian grows wild.
The flower is used as an emblem or symbol of countries, cities and various organizations. It can also be found on many souvenirs and art works.Gentiana is one of the three symbolic flowers of the Alps in Europe.It is also popular in Japan. It has been admired by Japanese people since the Fujiwara period (898-1185).
