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Gentian
Hi B. & Daniel,Have you come across a herb called gentian to help with digestion.
Please see below link in YouTube
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8 Replies
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Hey ,
It’s because of the bitter taste, that Gentian works. There are currently 2 models through which this mechanism of action is explained. Directly as well as indirectly.
Indirectly through stimulating a special group of cells in the brain that stimulate the vagus nerve which in turn stimulates the stomach (called the cephalic-response model). The other model describes local responses when receptors are activated.
This is why we often recommend bitter foods and herbs to help produce digestive juices in the stomach.
So if you like to explore if Gentian helps, give it a try! Just go slow and easy. Bitters can irritate the digestive system in some sensitive people.
Other examples of digestive bitters are Dandelion, Wormwood, Bitter melon and Burdock root. There is also a handout here with a list of other options that you might find interesting!
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Thank you Daniel. I will read the handout too.
Is this a bitter herb too? Please see link below.
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yes it is
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Thank you.
Another question please.
In which order should digestive bitters be taken before food and how long before food?
As I also take slippery elm, marshmallow root, DGL and L-Glutamine powders mixed in water also before food usually 30 minutes.
When should I incorporate the bitters?
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I’m assuming you’re referring to digestive bitters in supplement form and not food form. If in supplement form, it’s usually recommended to take them anywhere from 10-15mins before a meal to help stimulate the digestive juices in preparation for digestion. But they can also be taken with a meal and also after a meal if needed as well. It should be individualized.
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yes, supplement form. If bitters are taken before before food to stimulate the digestive juices, can I take the above mentioned concoction of the powders 10-15 minutes at the same time or should I take them alot earlier. I just want to protect the oesophagus and stomach lining before I eat.
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it would make sense to offer “protection” with mucilaginous herbs prior to taking bitters – not at the same time.
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Thank you.
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