Bitter

Bitters are a very complex group of phytochemicals that stimulate the bitter receptors in the mouth and throughout the digestive tract. They were some of the most valuable remedies in ancient medicine.

They were experienced as stimulating appetite and activating a wide range of key digestive functions, including increasing bile clearance from the liver. Bile is a key factor in bowel health that can be translated into improving digestive function and the microbiome.

They help to remove stagnation, as well as being energetically calming by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system to restore balance. Bitters are seen as cooling, reducing the intensity of some fevers and inflammatory diseases.

Examples of bitter herbs include gentian (Gentiana lutea), globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus) and dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale).