The efficacy and function of gentian [picture]

We know that there are many kinds of Chinese medicinal materials, and Gentiana [picture] is one of them. In order for Gentiana [Picture] to play its role correctly and scientifically, it is necessary to master its consumption method, because different medicinal materials have their own unique nutrition and efficacy. Let’s study it below.

【English name】RADIX GENTIANAE

[Other names] Gentian, gallbladder grass, gall grass

[Source] This product is the dried roots and rhizomes of Gentiana manshurica Kitag., Gentiana scabra Bunge, Gentiana triflora pall or Gentiana rigescens Franch. of the Gentianaceae family. The first three are commonly known as "Gentian" and the last one is commonly known as "Jian Longdan". Dig up in spring and autumn, wash and dry.

[Properties] Gentiana: The rhizome is irregularly lumpy, 1 to 3 cm long and 0.3 to 1 cm in diameter; the surface is dark gray-brown or dark brown, with stem marks or residual stem base at the upper end, and many slender roots around and at the lower end. The root is cylindrical, slightly twisted, 10-20 cm long and 0.2-0.5 cm in diameter; the surface is light yellow or yellow-brown, with obvious transverse wrinkles on the upper part, and the lower part is thinner with longitudinal wrinkles and root traces. It is brittle and easy to break, with a slightly flat cross section. The bark is yellowish white or light yellowish brown, while the wood is lighter in color and is arranged in dot-like rings. It has a faint smell and tastes very bitter.

【Identification】 (1) Cross section of this product: Gentiana epidermal cells sometimes remain, with a thicker outer wall. The cortex is narrow; the outer cortical cells are square-shaped, with slightly thick walls and corky; the inner cortical cells are tangentially elongated, and each cell is separated into several small square cells by longitudinal walls. The phloem is broad and fissured. The cambium is not very obvious. Xylem vessels are in bundles of 3 to 10. The medulla is obvious. The thin-walled cells contain tiny calcium oxalate needles.

[Processing] Remove impurities, wash, soak, cut into sections, and dry.

【Nature and flavor】 Bitter, cold.

[return through] return the liver and gallbladder meridians.

【Functions and indications】 Clears away heat and dampness, and relieves liver and gallbladder fire. It is used for damp-heat jaundice, swelling and itching of the vagina, leucorrhea, strong spleen, itching due to eczema, red eyes, deafness, pain in the ribs, bitter taste in the mouth, and convulsions.

【Usage and Dosage】 3 to 6 g.

【Storage】 Store in a dry place.

[Remarks] (1) When combined with Bupleurum, Gardenia, and Scutellaria, it can clear the liver and purge fire; when combined with Akebia, Plantago, and Alisma, it can clear dampness and heat; when combined with Coptis, Bezoar, and Uncaria, it can purge fire and calm convulsions; when combined with Artemisia Capillaris, Curcuma, and Phellodendron, it can purge dampness and reduce jaundice.

【Excerpt】 National Compendium of Chinese Herbal Medicines

The above introduces some common knowledge about Gentiana [Picture]. In order to make more people understand Gentiana [Picture], you can accumulate more related things in your daily life, which will play an important role in maintaining our health.