In many cultures around the world, bitter plants were considered a universal remedy for getting and staying healthy. To this day, a third of all herbal remedies are based on bitter ingredients. But what is the effect of artichokes, rocket and the like? The bitter substances they contain trigger a real chain reaction: when the taste buds on the tongue perceive bitterness, our body immediately goes on alert. The supposed poison must be flushed out as quickly as possible! To do this, the production of all digestive juices is reflexively boosted. More saliva in the mouth, more acid in the stomach - this also stimulates the appetite. Bitter medicine is therefore recommended when we feel weak and have no appetite.
When we enjoy bitter foods, the hormone gastrin is released in the stomach at the same time. This messenger substance stimulates the intestines, gall bladder and pancreas and gives them the signal that something is about to happen. The effect? We can absorb nutrients better, digest fat more easily and any digestive problems do not arise in the first place. Serving a bitter aperitif before a large meal makes perfect sense! Also because it helps our loved ones stay healthy. Bitter foods generally speed up all bodily functions, which has a positive effect on the immune system. The bitter substances heat us up internally and activate the lymphatic pharyngeal ring, our defense barrier against viruses and bacteria. It is therefore not surprising that Hildegard von Bingen and herbalist Paracelsus liked to administer "Amara", or bitter remedies.
