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What are bitters used for?

To promote digestive health

How do they work?

The effect of bitters can be produced through direct stimulation of the stomach lining or stimulation of the bitter taste buds on the tongue.  When a bitter hits the back of your tongue it sets off a chain reaction of events that leads to a boost in digestive function.  This action can be slow therefore it is recommended to take bitters about 15 minutes before meals to stimulate digestive function. 

Stimulation of the bitter taste buds will lead to:

An increase in appetite

Production of gastrin in the stomach

Increase production of digestive enzymes from the pancreas, liver, and duodenum (part of the small intestine)

Liver detoxification

Increased flow of bile (important for fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K and maintaining appropriate cholesterol levels)

Regulatory effect on pancreatic hormonal secretions

Facilitation of gut wall repair

Helpful for patients with:

Malabsorption

Chronic gas

Belching

Indigestion

Gall bladder congestion

Hypochlorhydria

Dysbiosis

Leaky Gut Syndrome

Those with skin conditions, arthritis, auto-immune disorders may also benefit from use of bitters

Do not use bitters if you have:

Gastric ulcers, gastritis, hyperchlorhydria

Herbal Bitters:

Artichoke       Cynara scolymus

Angelica root    Angelica archangelica
Barberry     Berberis vulgaris
Boneset      Eupatorium perfoliatum
Centaury    Centauria eruthraea
Chamomile       Matricaria recutita
Dandelion     Taraxacum officinalis
Gentian      Gentiana spp.
Golden Seal      Hydrastis canadensis
Horehound       Marrubium vulgare
Mugwort     Artemisia vulgaris
Rue        Ruta graveolens
Southernwood    Artemisia abrotanum
Tansy          Tanacetum vulgare
Wormwood       Artemisia absinthium
Yarrow       Achillea millefolia

Most commonly added to beverages and food

Ex. Angostura bitters

   
 

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Blue Mountain Apothecary
Custom Compounding Pharmacy
9145 Guilford Rd. # 160

Columbia, MD  21046
301-490-2353  
FAX: 301-490-2376
TOLL FREE: 888-248-3266
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