Steinmetz:Swertia

Swertia caroliniensis

Also known as (or relevant to) Swertia caroliniensis Frasera caroliniensis Family Gentianaceae English Names American Columbo (Colombo) root Natural Habitat North America Part(s) Used Radix Fraserae

Constituent(s) gentiopicrin yellow colouring matter Action tonic stimulant used to adulterate Radix Colombo

Swertia chirata

Also known as (or relevant to) Swertia chirata Swertia chirayita Ophelia chirata (and other species) Family Gentianaceae English Names Indian Chiretta Indian Gentian Indian Balmony Natural Habitat Northern India South Africa Part(s) Used Herba Chirettae indicae

Constituent(s) chiratin ophelic acid (bitter principle) gum resin carbonates potassium salt magnesia calcium tannin Action bitter tonic laxative stomachic febrifuge alterative anthelmintic hypnotic; yellow dyeing material; used in the liqueur industry as a bitter ingredient