Radix Gentianae
Source
The root and rhizome of Gentiana scabra Bunge, G. flgescens Franch. and
several species of the same genus, family Gentianaceae.
Characteristics
Rhizome vertically grown, irregular masses, 1-3 cm long, 0.3-1.0 cm in
diameter;
stem base and scar remained at the upper end, numerous slender roots growing
around the lower parts; annular wrinkles appearing on the upper part and
longitudinal wrinkles on the lower part. Rhizome and root light yellow
to grey-yellow in colour, brittle in texture. Fracture showing vascular
bundles in spotted arrangement. Root of G. rigescens with no annular wrinkles,
cork membranous, brown-yellow, easily separated, firm in texture, xylem
yellow-white without pith. Prepared as segments. Bitter in taste, cold
in nature and attributive to liver, gallbladder and stomach channels.
Indication
1. Clear away heat and deprive dampness from middle-jiao: For jaundice,
prurigo, vulvitis, leucorrhagia, etc. of dampness-heat type.
2. Purge the sthenic fire in the liver and gallbladder: For high fever
with convulsion, sthenic heat-syndrome of liver and gallbladder, manifested
as fever, headache, flushed face, restlessness, conjunctivitis, otitis,
bitter taste in the mouth, hypochondriac pain, etc., usually used together
with Radix Scuteltariae and Fructus Gardeniae.
Pharmacological
Action
Gentiopicrin and gentianine are the active components.
1. Oral administration of gentiopicrin for dogs with experimental stomach
fistula can promote secretion of gastric juice and free hydrochloric acid
and increase appetite.
2. Protecting liver and increasing biliary secretion.
3. Significant diuretic effect on experimental animals.
4. Anti-inflammatory effect of gentianine is 4-7 times stronger than that
of sodium salicylate.
Administration Decoction: 3-9g.