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Gentian Violet --an old remedy with many applications.

What is Gentian Violet? It is a synthetic anti-fungal and antiseptic dye, named after the deep purple flower, Gentian and its root that have also been used in traditional herbal medicine for over 2,000 years. Gentian Flower and Root are different from Gentian Violet. Gentian Violet is a potent topical anti-microbial, especially helpful as an antifungal. It can be used for oral thrush, (candida) and toenail fungus impetigo, burns, pinworm, and a number of other cutaneous and systemic fungal infections. It is not to be swallowed in large amounts and does have some potential risks, especially in children. Precautions: Generally, and in young patients, especially swallowing is to be avoided. It can be swabbed on the gums and mouth to avoid this. It will stain your mouth, clothes, skin and toes a bright deep purple.


Not to be confused with its synthetic namesake, Gentian is a bitter herb that has been used in traditional Western and Chinese herbal medicine practice for thousands of years. It is commonly included in digestive bitters for its ability to aid in digestion, stimulate appetite and as a liver tonic. It has broader uses as well, for example it can also help with wound healing and fatigue. It is also a primary ingredient in Maine's own official state soft drink, Moxie and gives the beverage its distinctive flavor. It is different from Gentian Violet in that it can be taken internally. Dr. Axe has a nice overview of Gentian and its uses:

https://www.maine.gov/sos/kids/about/symbols/drink






Mountian Rose Herbs says: Gentiana lutea is an alpine plant native to the mountains of central and southern Europe. Gentian is an herbaceous perennial plant with a tall stalk that supports several star-shaped, yellow flowers. It has an intensely bitter root that has been utilized in traditional European herbalism for centuries. Although occasionally used in brewing, gentian root is typically employed as a classic ingredient in herbal bitters and liqueurs.

Gentian is an herb of the high pastures of the Alps and the Himalayas. The roots take 7 to 10 growing seasons to mature. The botanical name, Gentiana, is derived from Gentius, king of ancient Illyria (modern day Bosnia) (180-167 B.C.E.), who discovered its therapeutic values, according to a history written by Pliny the Elder (ca. 23-79 C.E.) The herb has been used in European herbal medicine throughout the 2200 years since its discovery. Gentian belongs to the Gentianaceae plant family.

Precautions Use with caution in persons with gastrointestinal irritation and duodenal ulcers.

https://mountainroseherbs.com/gentian-root?sku=11-00251-14&utm_campaign=&utm_term=&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_ver=3&hsa_acc=5389326775&hsa_mt=&hsa_src=x&hsa_cam=18460021119&hsa_grp=&hsa_tgt=&hsa_kw=&hsa_ad=&hsa_net=adwords&gclid=Cj0KCQiA7bucBhCeARIsAIOwr-9xg8WY64h8MMLPYio9qbNxiXyMBR1LxYK7g00S9BKP4zh3oCWxJp0aAr1kEALw_wcB

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