Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Bitter principles, also known as bitters, have a long history of use in traditional medicine systems for supporting appetite, especially in cases of deficient appetite (anorexia or hyporexia). The use of bitters is rooted in European herbal traditions, as well as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Herbs and substances with a bitter taste, such as gentian root, wormwood, and dandelion, have been believed to stimulate digestive secretions and improve appetite. The mechanism proposed in traditional contexts is that the bitter taste receptors on the tongue trigger a reflex that increases saliva, gastric acid, and bile production, thereby enhancing appetite and digestion. This practice is evident in the formulation of many herbal "digestive bitters" and aperitifs consumed before meals for this purpose.

While there is some emerging scientific research suggesting that bitter compounds can stimulate digestive secretions and may influence appetite regulation through the gut-brain axis, robust clinical trials are limited. Most evidence is historical and based on longstanding empirical use rather than modern randomized controlled trials. Nonetheless, the traditional use of bitters for appetite stimulation is well-documented in authoritative herbal reference works and pharmacopoeias. Therefore, the justification for their use in appetite deficiency is primarily traditional, with a moderate evidence rating due to widespread, consistent historical usage and plausible physiological mechanisms, though lacking substantial high-quality clinical research.

More about Bitter principals
More about Appetite (deficient)

Other ingredients used for Appetite (deficient)

Other health conditions supported by Bitter principals

Products containing Bitter principals