Bitters are substances that stimulate the digestive process by either indirect action via the flavor of bitter or by direct action on any of the digestive organs. While bitters are generally considered to effect the liver and gallbladder they may also effect stomach or pancreas. Their main function is to stimulate the production or excretion of enzymes or other digestive juices such as bile. These substances are essential for complete digestion of foods and therefore critical for proper digestion. Bitter herbs have a long tradition in many cultures for short term assistance to the digestion, to “jump-start” the digestion. The European tradition is likely the strongest in this regard, with a large number of people using bitters for their digestion throughout Europe and abroad based on this traditional thinking. It is important to remember that these herbs are only for short term use and if used long term can create dependancy, causing the digestion to function improperly without the assistance of bitters. Some common applications of bitters are sluggish digestion, bloating, gas and lack of appetite. Like all plants, those listed in this category have many other actions and choosing the best botanical for your needs rests on proper choices.

Bitters

Sort by: Product Price Default See details Boldo Boldo is a famed herb in the Andes mountains of Chile and Peru. It is considered a strong bitter tonic and has become known as a digestive tonic for “gastro intestinal disorders” a hepatoprotective herbs adapted itself to many cleansing tonics digestive and “liver” formulas. Frequently used as a tea, we have adapted the full spectrum extractives of boldo to mimic the liquid extracts used in various studies. Boldine- the main alkaloid of P. boldus-appears to be implicated in this hepatoprotective activity” (see studies). The recent demonstration that boldine is an effective antioxidant in both biological and non-biological systems has opened up the perspective of a broad range of uses in medicine and industry. An attractive, drought-resistant shrub form the coastal Andes of Chile and Peru. The round leaves are very fragrant and have a long history for use as a natural botanical. Boldo is related to cinnamon and Bay trees, but employed for its principle bitter oils and alkaloids. Boldine has antioxidants which are captured by our full spectrum extraction process. Priced from: $9.99 See details Tayuya Used as a mild analgesic and anti-inflammatory for neuralgia, sciatica, headaches, gout, epilepsy and rheumatism (1,p56). It is employed to clear liver and spleen obstructions, treat ulcers, reverse dyspepsia (pain or discomfort of the upper abdominal area), relieve irritable bowel syndrome, and improve sluggish digestion1. It acts as a blood purifier and detoxifier and helps with eczema, acne, herpes and other skin problems1. Tayuya also helps relieve emotional fatigue and depression. Priced from: $9.99