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What are Bitter Herbs?

Vanessa Harvey
Vanessa Harvey

Bitter herbs are plants that have a bitter taste ranging from mild to very strong, and also are simply called bitters. They are mentioned in ancient texts such as those that compose the Judeo-Christian Bible. The context in which they are mentioned is generally accepted as evidence that they have been employed in home herbal remedies for millennia. For example, in the Old Testament scripture of Psalm 51:7, David spoke of being purged by hyssop, one of the bitter herbs, in order to be clean. Wormwood is also mentioned in biblical scripture and is generally considered one of the strongest of these types of plants.

There are physiological reactions that take place when receptors of the tongue transmit a bitter taste to the brain. Such responses usually have a beneficial effect on the body due to the stimulation of digestive fluids. The production of other fluids is also activated, including bile which helps to break down fatty foods. Individuals with a poor appetite or who are convalescent may improve with the ingestion of bitter herbs.

Hops are a type of strong bitter herb.
Hops are a type of strong bitter herb.

Some herbalists have categorized these plants into two categories: mild and strong. The mild category often includes chamomile, dandelion, and yarrow. Herbs that generally appear in the strong category are wormwood, gentian, and hops. Although many people rely on the bitter herbs to make home herbal remedies, some of these plants, such as wormwood, are considered poisonous.

Bitter herbs have been traced back to the Bible.
Bitter herbs have been traced back to the Bible.

Many dieters took an interest in bitter orange, an herb derived from the bitter orange tree. Researchers found that it has aided some individuals in their weight loss regimen; however, studies have also shown that it may increase the heart rate. This is why medical doctors tend to advise against the use of bitter orange. Another herb called bitter yarrow is made from the yarrow plant and widely used in various home herbal remedies.

Wormwood is one of the bitter herbs.
Wormwood is one of the bitter herbs.

This medicinal plant has been used internally to clear mucous discharge from the bladder, aid clotting when treating bleeding, and stimulate perspiration. Externally, bitter yarrow has been used to retard baldness when added to shampoos. People who elect to use it internally should be aware that it does contain steroids. They may therefore want to consult a physician before proceeding with any regular use.

Bitter orange is believed to increase metabolic levels, but also increases the heart rate.
Bitter orange is believed to increase metabolic levels, but also increases the heart rate.

People who are interested in using any of the bitter herbs may want to know that the aftertaste left in the mouth may be instantly neutralized by chewing a piece of licorice root. Some people may also want to investigate the herbal home remedies made from these plants. The remedies can be used to naturally treat ailments suffered by farm animals and pets.

Discussion Comments

anon992006

Lately I have a craving for something bitter, very bitter that I can drink a teaspoon or so of occasionally. Any suggestions? When I used to drink beer it was the bitter taste that I was drawn to. I don't drink anymore.

anon950228

Bitter herbs such as fieldways bitter herb contains wormwood and absithium. This has hallucinogenic properties. It is also illegal to buy premixed herbs.

chivebasil

@nextcorrea - Absolutely you can use bitter herbs in your cooking. I have had several Mediterranean dishes that make liberal use of bitter herbs. Try a range of herbs to get a sense of their flavor and then begin incorporating them into your recipes whenever it seems appropriate. They are obviously safe to eat and you can prepare them in lots of different ways. Happy experimenting!

nextcorrea

Has anyone every used bitter herbs to make bitter food? I know this sounds strange, but I really like bitter flavors when I eat. Could I start using bitter herbs as an ingredient?

jonrss

I am a big believer in the medicinal benefits of herbs and bitter herbs are some of the most versatile and powerful. There is a list as long as my arm of illness and ailments that bitter herbs can help to relieve. They can be used in lots of different forms, combined with other treatments and, in many cases, grown in your own backyard. Bitter herbs are a great place to start for people looking for effective natural remedies.

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    • Hops are a type of strong bitter herb.
      Hops are a type of strong bitter herb.
    • Bitter herbs have been traced back to the Bible.
      By: Peter Galbraith
      Bitter herbs have been traced back to the Bible.
    • Wormwood is one of the bitter herbs.
      By: Mark Herreid
      Wormwood is one of the bitter herbs.
    • Bitter orange is believed to increase metabolic levels, but also increases the heart rate.
      By: Malgorzata Kistryn
      Bitter orange is believed to increase metabolic levels, but also increases the heart rate.