Gentiana Lutea, known as the yellow gentian, is a mountain plant with strong yellow flowers and a bitter root. People have used its root for generations as a digestive tonic and in traditional remedies. The root contains bitter compounds that can help digestion and are of interest for small-scale herbal and natural product makers. Because of these uses, the plant has both real medical and economic value for local communities.

At the same time, Gentiana Lutea faces real danger in many places. People collect its roots from the wild to sell them, and when roots are removed from wild plants the population can quickly shrink. Habitat loss from land changes, road building and other pressures also reduce where the plant can grow. Even if the species is not globally endangered, local populations like those in parts of the Balkans, can be at high risk if nothing is done.

To address this, CNVP Albania supported a practical conservation effort in Shishtavec by helping plant 2,000 square meters of Gentiana Lutea. This planting is the first step in a larger plan to protect wild populations while giving local families another way to earn money. CNVP provided funds, technical guidance and training for organic cultivation. The goal is to replace harmful wild harvesting with managed, sustainable farming that follows good agricultural practices.

Growing gentian on farms has two main benefits. First, it reduces pressure on wild plants because farmers supply the market instead of collectors digging up roots in nature. Second, organic and well-managed production can bring better prices and steady income to rural families. CNVP Albania is also connecting growers with small buyers and networks that value certified, traceable products. This helps ensure that local people keep more of the value generated by the plant, instead of middlemen taking most of the profit.

The project in Shishtavec also includes monitoring. CNVP advises regular checks of planted areas and nearby wild sites so changes can be seen early. Certification and clear labeling are recommended so customers know the product is farmed and organic. Training on sustainable harvest methods and proper handling of the root is part of the work, because quality matters for both health and price.

Gentiana Lutea can be a sustainable resource if people manage it carefully. The CNVP supported planting of 2,000 m² in Shishtavec is a practical start: it protects wild plants, creates farming opportunities, and helps generate income for local families. Continued monitoring, certification and market links will decide how successful this model becomes. 

This project is funded by Prespa Ohrid Nature Trust - PONT and implemented by CNVP Foundation.