Bitters

There are many herbal remedies containing bitter ingredients.

These mainly exert their beneficial effect in the digestive tract, stimulating the secretion of digestive juices and enzymes in the stomach and intestines, and the flow of bile from the liver.

They enhance the appetite, improve digestion and absorption. They are prescribed for poor appetite, sluggish bowels, indigestion, gal bladder, liver problems, gastritis, nervous exhaustion, and to aid convalescence after flu or other debilitating illness.

Many bitters have other therapeutic actions; some benefit the immune system, acting as natural antimicrobials and antineoplastic (anti-tumour) rememdies, some have a relaxing effect on the nervous system, some have anti inflammatory action.

Well known bitter tonics include: Dandelion, Dock Root, Rosemary, Burdock and Wood Betony. Their beneficial action on the digestive system begins with their effect on the bitter receptors in the mouth, so for good effect they are best tasted, despite our squeamish palates!