Botanical Overview
Gentianella alborosea belongs to the family Gentianaceae and is commonly known as “Hercampuri.” This medicinal plant is native to the Andean regions of Peru and Bolivia. The whole plant is traditionally used, particularly in traditional Andean herbal medicine.
Energetics
Gentianella alborosea has a cooling temperature and drying moisture energetics. Its primary taste is bitter, which correlates with its digestive tonic effects. It is tonifying in nature, predominantly influencing the qi aspect of the body’s energy.
Primary Actions
- Bitters
- Hepatoprotective
- Digestive stimulant
- Cholagogue
- Anti-inflammatory
Indications
Western
Gentianella alborosea is traditionally indicated for symptoms such as digestive sluggishness, dyspepsia, anorexia, liver dysfunction, hypercholesterolemia, and general inflammatory conditions. It is used in syndromes involving hepatic insufficiency, cholestasis, and metabolic syndrome.
TCM
No specific indications documented.
Ayurveda
No specific indications documented.
Unani
No specific indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains phytochemicals such as secoiridoid glycosides, bitter principles, xanthones, and flavonoids, responsible for its bitter, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 g dried herb 1-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL 2-3 times daily
- Decoction: whole plant boiled 5-10 min, 1 cup 1-2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Gentianella alborosea is generally considered safe when utilized in traditional dosages. Avoid use in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to Gentianaceae family plants. Use with caution in individuals sensitive to bitter substances. Potential additive effects with other bitter herbs and bile acid medications should be monitored.
Astrological Correspondences
No established planetary or elemental rulers documented for Gentianella alborosea.
Selected References
- Phytochemical and Pharmacological Study of Gentianella alborosea
- Medicinal Plants of the Peruvian Andes: Gentianella alborosea
- Gentianella alborosea (Hercampuri), The Useful Plants of the Andes