Phytochemical profiling and anti-inflammatory activity of Gentiana lutea roots from Pollino National Park

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Gentiana lutea L. is a mountain herb with a long-standing use in traditional European medicine, especially for digestive disorders and for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Its roots are also traditionally used in the preparation of regional liqueurs, particularly in Central Italy. Aim of the study: This study aimed to characterize the phytochemical composition of Gentiana lutea roots from the Pollino National Park and assess the potential intestinal anti-inflammatory effects, using an ex vivo model, of an hydroalcoholic extract mimicking the traditional Italian Gentiana liqueur. Materials and methods: Roots were collected from the Pollino National Park, extracted and subjected to HPLC-DAD and NMR-based metabolomic analysis for complete phytochemical characterization. A Gentiana hydroalcoholic liqueur analogue was prepared, chemically characterized and its anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated ex vivo on LPS-stimulated murine colon tissue. Results: Phytochemical analyses revealed high levels of bioactive secoiridoids (gentiopicroside, swertiamarin, amarogentin, sweroside), iridoids (loganic acid), and xanthones (isogentisin). NMR metabolomics further identified sugars (sucrose predominant), organic acids (notably malate), amino acids (asparagine, glutamine, tyrosine, aspartate as major ones), and lipid components including β-sitosterol and various fatty acids. The Gentiana hydroalcoholic liqueur analogue retained relevant concentrations of swertiamarin, loganic acid, sweroside, and isogentisin, despite its milder extraction conditions. The hydroalcoholic extract significantly reduced LPS-induced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, while upregulating IL-10 expression in colon tissues, suggesting a potent immunomodulatory effect. Conclusion: These findings provide scientific support for the traditional use of Gentiana lutea roots in digestive health and highlight their potential as sources of functional phytocompounds for complementary strategies in gut inflammation management.