Current Uses
Various Spirits, Tinctures
Taste
Plant Parts Used
Used in Spirits
Angostura, Aperol, Beer, Bitters, Stockton, Suze & Vermouth
Cultivation Regions
Perennial, Zone 6, Zone 7 & Zone 8
Origins
Therapeutic Properties
Alterative, Antipyretic & Antiseptic
Precautions
Ayurvedic Character
Cooling
Substitutions
History
Used medicinally for thousands of years, this innocent looking flower's roots contain one of the most concentrated bitter flavors known. Prized for its bitter compounds, it has been over-harvested in Europe where it is considered indispensable in many traditional drinks. It is now protected in many areas where it was once wild-harvested. Gentian is known for its bright blue or yellow flowers, depending on the species, of which there are many.