Bitter herbs are the herbs that are commonly known to contain bitterness as a property from their taste. Most of the bitter herbs have over the time been used for healing purposes as well as cooking and in various ceremonies. The healing factor of the bitter herbs has always taken center stage for they have over the past years been used for alterative heeling. From the past the bitter herbs have for a longtime now been used as astringent, a relaxer, and as internal relaxer. They have also been used to counter inflammation and improve digestion.
Their benefits as health remedies include
- Aid in the digestion
- Dispelling of gas from the intestines
- Stimulate the appetite breakdown fatty foods
The five bitter herbs that are commonly known are Horseradish, chicory, sow thistle, endives, and lettuce. They have from the past been used in the maror and they are believed to produces a discovery of bounteous mercy from their bitterness.
Horseradish health benefits
Also known as Red Cole or cochlearia, the horseradish is a tall perennial herb which has long roots as well as large rough leaves and a pinnacle of flowers which are white in color. Being in the group of the bitter herbs, the horseradish is a good and effective stimulant and it lowers fevers from an effect of increasing perspiration. It also contains antibacterial properties and it stimulates circulation. The horseradish is used internally for urinary and lung infections and it also works effectively on arthritis and general weakness. The herb has also been found to cleanse and purify the bloodstream the body off waste.
The goldenseal herb health benefits
This is a strong bitter herb which is commonly used for the stimulation of appetite as well as in the elimination of infections. The most important part of this herb is the root which is also said to make the herb very powerful bitter has over the past been used for medicinal purposes. The golden seal was used for the treatment of skin wounds, for eyewash and the ailments of the throat and that of the digestive system. The goldenseal is one of the bitterest herbs, and a very natural predator. Places where the goldenseal is to be found include in the forests which have moist soils and in the moist meadows.
Chicory herb health benefits
Chicory is also a perennial plant that is known to be in the family of bitter herbs since its root contains bitter, milky juice. The Chicory is commonly found in the wild and also along roadsides. Like tee rest of the bitter herbs, it is helpful in spleen problems and for jaundice too. The juice tapped from the leaves and used in making tea is usually helpful in the production of bile. It is also known to be an appetizer , an astringent, laxative and as containing tonic properties.
Sow thistle herb health benefits
Also known as Silybum marianu, the sow thistle is likely the one of the original bitter herbs. It is well known for its healing properties as it is used as liver detoxifier and also as an antidote for poisoning from the amanita-mushroom. The sow thistle also contains antioxidants properties, for this reason it helps in protecting the body from the harmful free radicals.
Lettuce herb health benefits
The plant is commonly know for growing wild, the plan is fairly short and has light yellow flowers and its basket shaped. This bitter herb is known to be used on overactive nervous system as well as a sedative. It is also effective in reducing the restlessness feeling and insomnia. Historically, the plant was used in teas which were known to ease the irritated cough in children. In the treatment of diseases of the liver, the sow thistle has been effective.