Phytochemical screening of Gentiana purpurea, an important Norwegian medicinal plant

Gentiana purpurea L. (Gentianaceae family) was one of the most important medicinal plants in Norway in the 19th and 20th centuries, both for veterinary and human use. Indications were all kind of stomach diseases, especially diarrhea, but also chest diseases such as bronchitis, and to treat coughing and the cold. The roots are known for the intense bitterness, which can be explained by the high content of secoirioids. Secoiridoids, such as gentiopicroside and amarogentin have previously been identified in the plant [1], however a detailed overview of the metabolites in the traditional preparations that were commonly used has not previously been described. The aim of the presented study was to perform a phytochemical screening of water and ethanol extracts of G. purpurea.