TCM: Listed under “Herbs that clear Heat”, in ‘Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness’ Gentiana scabra, root (long dan cao) enters the Gall Bladder, Liver and Stomach channels. Bitter and cold, it drains Damp and Heat from the Liver and Gall Bladder channels and clears Liver Fire.
General: Gentiana root is used orally in formulas to treat liver and gallbladder disorders, specifically acute inflammation and acute infections, pain in the costal regions and bitter taste in the mouth, urinary infection with difficult painful urination. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, diuretic, alterative, antipyretic and hepatoprotective actions.