We sure know that the herbs we prescribed are an acquired taste (cats bottom face anyone?), but sometimes behind the taste is amazing activity. This is particularly the case with our bitter herbs.
Bitters receptors are found throughout the body not just the gastrointestinal tract, but the respiratory system, cardiovascular system and even our nervous system.1 Meaning that while the bitter receptors in our mouth are the first to experience the bitter taste, that is just the beginning of the conversation with our body as a whole.1,2
Bitter herbs such as Gentian (a well-known and well-loved medicine at herbs on the hill) increases the secretion of gastric juice and bile helping to improve digestive function.3 It is this improvement in digestive function that can be particularly helpful in reflux (link previous weeks article).
Interestingly, gentians bitter benefits are even employed outside of the herbal dispensary being used as a major component in bitters used in cocktails as well as aperitifs before a meal to assist with digestion.4
1. Yu T, Zhao G, Wang Y. Natural Compounds Modulating Bitter Taste Receptors: Implications for Multisystem Health and Disease. Food Science and Human Wellness. Published online March 2026. doi:10.26599/fshw.2026.9250966
2. Jeruzal-Świątecka J, Fendler W, Pietruszewska W. Clinical Role of Extraoral Bitter Taste Receptors. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2020;21(14):5156. doi:10.3390/ijms21145156
3. McMullen MK, Whitehouse JM, Towell A. Bitters: Time for a new paradigm. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2015;2015(1):1-8. doi:10.1155/2015/670504
4. Veljović S, Cvetković D, Petrović M, et al. Serbian Traditional Spirit Enriched With Yellow Gentian and Saline Wormwood: Volatile Profile and Sensory Traits. Flavour and Fragrance Journal. 2025;40(3):555-568. doi:10.1002/ffj.3846
