Hercampuri

Gentianella alborosea (en G. nitida)

A small, very bitter herb of the gentian family. It is sold for liver, gallbladder and cholesterol complaints and for weight loss; good research is lacking.

Safety notes

Very bitter; not in pregnancy. The species grow in a small area high in the mountains and are overharvested: buy only cultivated or tested products. Traditional use is no proof of effect; consult a doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take medication or have a medical condition.

Cautions by tradition (1)

Healing traditions of the Americas: Not in pregnancy. Choose cultivated or tested products.

Preparation

The dried herb as a bitter tea.

Use in traditions

A folk remedy in Peru since before the Incas. In the markets of the north several bitter gentians are used for liver and gallbladder complaints, diabetes and high cholesterol, and to 'purify' the blood. Hercampuri is often sold as a powder, so species are easily mixed up.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Healing traditions of the Americas

Attributed effects

For liver and gallbladder complaints, high cholesterol and diabetes.

Preparation and amount

Steep a small amount of dried herb for 5 minutes; very bitter.

Caution: Not in pregnancy. Choose cultivated or tested products.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tea (infusion)

Sources

All herbs from South America →