Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bitter principles—phytochemicals imparting a bitter flavor to herbs such as gentian, wormwood, and centaury—are traditionally used in many herbal medicine systems to support digestive health, including the treatment of ulcers. The historical rationale is that bitter-tasting compounds stimulate the secretion of saliva and digestive juices, potentially improving gastric function and promoting mucosal healing. In European and Asian folk medicine, bitters have been employed to “strengthen the stomach” and relieve dyspepsia, with some references to their use in managing ulcer symptoms. However, the tradition is based more on observed effects for general digestion rather than specific ulcer healing. Scientific validation for the use of bitter principles in treating ulcers is limited. Some studies have shown that certain bitter herbs (e.g., gentian, Andrographis) may have mild anti-inflammatory or gastroprotective effects in animal models, but direct evidence in humans for ulcer healing is lacking. Furthermore, stimulation of gastric acid secretion by bitters could, in theory, exacerbate some types of ulcers, particularly those associated with high stomach acid. Overall, the use of bitter principles for ulcers is primarily justified by traditional practice, with very limited scientific evidence supporting their efficacy or safety for this specific indication.

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