The Benefits of Bitters!
- Sally Cross
- Apr 1, 2022
- 3 min read
Bitter Herbs for Optimal Digestion.
by Sally Cross, Natural Change.
Life, Health & Menopause Coach, Master Herbalist.
https://www.naturalchangewithsallycross.com
An Original Paleo Food- Our ancestors benefitted from bitter herbs in their diet in the form of wild green leaves, many of them have plant constituents called alkaloids and lignins. Note that when consumed in excess they may be considered toxic. It is a taste that can evoke a strong reaction, a taste that even in small amounts, triggers an incredible physiological response. As Herb Pharm formulator David Bunting says, “Bitter plants may in fact be the ultimate Paleo food, ancient plant chemicals that trigger important biological responses while reminding us on some deep level of our innate primeval heritage.”
Unfortunately, the bitter taste is one that has gradually disappeared from our diets. We have preferred the sweet taste, this has led to more emphasis on naturally sweet tasting high carbohydrate grains. Their sweet taste comes from the complex carbohydrates with their complex sugar molecules.
Benefits to our Digestion
In herbal medicine, the bitter plants supply us with many health benefits, particularly to our digestive system, these include:
The bitters stimulate appetite.
They enter our body through our mouth, stimulating receptors in our tongue.. The act of mastication and saliva production heralds the beginning of the digestive process.
The bitters increase production and release of gastric acids that are involved in the process of digestion.
Bitters increase peristalsis function, this is the wavelike motion of our digestive system that stimulates the movement of food through our digestive system.
They improve production of hydrochloric acid triggers in the gut's immune system to destroy bacteria and viruses.
They aid in the production and release of digestive enzymes.
They improve the process of digestion of carbohydrates and fats at they moves through our intestines.
They stimulate action of the pancreas which release hormones that regulate blood glucose and insulin.
They increase pancreatic juice production that contain enzymes that break down proteins, starch and fats.
They stimulate release of digestive juices from the duodenum, gallbladder and liver, supporting the liver in detoxification work and increasing the flow of bile and enzymes.
They aid the repair of gut wall damage.
Bitters & Brain
Because of the gut-brain connection, via the vagus nerve, not only can bitters enhance digestion, but they can reduce depression and improve mood.
Happy Gut, Happy brain!
Here are some bitters we can easily add to our Diet:
Arugula
Collards
Dandelion leaves
Endive
Kale
Lacto-fermented Vegetables
Radicchio.
We can enhance the action of the bitters by adding Apple cider vinegar, Lemon or Lime juice.
In Ayurveda bitter herbs are considered cooling, so combining them with herbs of a warming nature can prevent digestive discomfort and create balance. These warming herbs include cinnamon, ginger, fennel and cardamom.
Medicinal Bitter Herbs
Artichoke leaf
Burdock root
Chamomile
Dandelion
Gentian
Motherwort
Wormwood
These can be added to water to take as an aperitif.
Contra-Indications:
Always seek the advice of a qualified Herbalist before taking any Herbal Remedies, as they can be contra-indicated in various conditions eg. Pregnancy, Breast feeding, Medications and certain Medical conditions eg. Kidney stones, Gallbladder disease, Hiatal hernia, Gastritis, Peptic ulcer.
The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. Please also do your own research.
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