Find out the potential health benefits of drinking gentian tea.
Gentian tea is an herbal tea with a pungent, bitter flavor. It certainly won’t be the first thing you reach for when looking for refreshment, but there are many reasons you should consider adding gentian tea to your cupboard, and they all have to do with your health. Keep reading to learn more about gentian tea!
Gentian Tea is BitterÂ
Yes, gentian tea is very bitter – but that’s kind of the point. In our modern society, we all consume way too many sweet and savory foods, and not enough bitter sustenance. So, why is that a problem? Well, bitter foods and herbs are actually crucial to our health. They help stimulate the digestive system, aid in the proper function of the liver, and support healthy blood sugar levels already in the normal range. That’s why so many people seek the benefits of gentian tea, or use gentian supplements.
How Does Gentian Tea Work?
When you consume something bitter, such as gentian tea, the moment the taste hits your mouth, saliva begins to pool, which is the first crucial step in proper digestion. At the same time, your liver is stimulated, causing it to release bile (digestive juices) in preparation for what the stomach is about to receive. Bile is important because it breaks down the fats we consume into fatty acids, allowing our bodies to absorb them through the digestive tract.
Other Gentian Tea Potential Health Benefits
- Supports a Healthy Digestive Tract
- Promotes Proper Liver Function
- Helps Promote a Healthy Appetite
- May Help Curb Sugar Cravings
- Promotes Healthy Blood Sugar Levels
- May Support Regular Menstruation
- May Soothe Indigestion
How to Use Gentian Tea
Gentian tea is most commonly made using dried, chopped gentian root and works best when consumed 30 minutes to an hour before eating. Because it does have that bitter taste, it might take some getting used to, but most people come to enjoy the taste after the first sip or two. To help you get used to it, try these gentian tea recipe ideas.
Basic Gentian Tea Recipe
1 Teaspoon Dried Gentian Root
1 Tablespoon Honey
Pour 8oz boiling water over the tea, cover the mug and let sit 15-20 minutes. Add the honey just before drinking.
Gentian and Chamomile Tea Recipe
½ Teaspoon Dried Gentian Root
½ Teaspoon Loose Chamomile
1 Pinch of Orange Peel
1 Tablespoon Honey (optional)
Pour 8 oz of boiling water over the tea, cover the mug, and let sit 10-15 minutes.
Rosy Gentian Tea Recipe
1 Teaspoon Dried Gentian Root
1 Teaspoon Lily
1 Teaspoon Rosebuds
2 Teaspoon Raw Clover Honey
Pour 8 oz boiling water over the tea, cover the mug, and let sit 10-15 minutes. Add the honey just before drinking.
Gentian Root Liqueur
Many people also use the herb to make an afterdinner liqueur to promote healthy digestion. Learn how to make it yourself with this recipe!
How do you take your gentian tea? Tell us your recipe in the comments below!
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