Gentianin

/dʒɛn.ʃiˈæ.nɪn/ noun

Definition

A bitter crystalline compound extracted from gentian plants, with medicinal and flavoring applications.

Etymology

From gentian plus the chemical suffix -in, used to name alkaloid compounds and active ingredients extracted from plants.

Kelly Says

Gentianin is one of nature's most efficient warning systems—the human tongue can detect bitterness at concentrations of a few parts per million, so a tiny amount of gentianin makes your whole mouth recoil in useful self-protection.

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