Bitter crucifer

The bitter crucifer, botanically Polygala amara, is a perennial herbaceous plant from the milkwort family (Polygalaceae). It is native to Europe, prefers calcareous, dry soils, and grows mainly in meadows, dry grasslands, and open woodlands. The plant is known for its intense, bitter taste, which gave it its name, and it is also known for its traditional uses in folk medicine.

What benefits does the bitter crucifer offer?

The bitter crucifer has been used in naturopathy for centuries for various problems. Unfortunately, these uses only align to a limited extent with the current state of research, and considerably more research is necessary to scientifically prove the effects attributed to the plant. As always, some studies are cited, although these should be questioned critically. Here are some of the traditional areas of application and modern uses of the bitter crucifer:

  • Promotion of digestion: The bitter compounds contained in the plant are associated with a stimulating effect on digestion. This effect in relation to bitter compounds has also been demonstrated in studies (1).
  • Respiratory conditions: Traditionally, the bitter crucifer was used for support with coughs, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems, as it could possess expectorant properties (2).
  • Strengthening the immune system: According to traditional medicine, some constituents of the plant are said to be able to strengthen the body's own defenses and promote general well-being.
  • Anti-inflammatory effect: In folk medicine, the bitter crucifer was used to relieve rheumatic complaints. The saponins it contains, due to their anti-inflammatory properties, point to an effect in this direction (3)

How does the bitter crucifer work?

The mode of action of the bitter crucifer is based on a combination of its bioactive constituents:

  • Bitter compounds: These promote digestion by stimulating the secretion of digestive juices, thereby improving nutrient absorption (1).
  • Saponins: These compounds support the loosening of mucus in the airways, which eases breathing (2). They also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties (3).
  • Flavonoids: As powerful antioxidants, they have an anti-inflammatory effect and protect cells from oxidative stress (4,5).

Side effects and precautions

Although the bitter crucifer offers many benefits, potential risks should be taken into account:

  • Stomach complaints: Due to the high concentration of bitter compounds, the plant can cause stomach irritation in sensitive individuals.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should refrain from taking it, as the effects on the unborn child or baby have not been sufficiently studied.
  • Allergic reactions: In rare cases, allergic reactions can occur.

Conclusion

The bitter crucifer is a remarkable plant with a long tradition in naturopathy. Its digestion-promoting and expectorant properties make it particularly valuable for digestive and respiratory complaints. Nevertheless, it should be used with care and in consultation with a physician, especially by sensitive individuals or during pregnancy.

Sources

  1. Rezaie, P., Bitarafan, V., Horowitz, M., & Feinle-Bisset, C. (2021). Effects of Bitter Substances on GI Function, Energy Intake and Glycaemia-Do Preclinical Findings Translate to Outcomes in Humans?. Nutrients, 13(4), 1317. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13041317
  2. Shin, K.-C., Kim, D. W., Oh, Y. J., Seo, M.-J., Na, C. S., & Kim, Y.-S. (2021). Improved production of deglucosylated platycodin D from saponins from balloon flower leaf by a food-grade enzyme using high hydrostatic pressure. Heliyon, 7(10), e08104. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e08104 (Atemweg)
  3. Passos, F. R. S., Araújo-Filho, H. G., Monteiro, B. S., Shanmugam, S., Araújo, A. A. S., Almeida, J. R. G. S., Thangaraj, P., Quintans Júnior, L. J., & Quintans, J. S. S. (2022). Anti-inflammatory and modulatory effects of steroidal saponins and sapogenins on cytokines: A review of pre-clinical research. Phytomedicine, 96, 153842. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153842
  4. Chae, S. C., Lee, J. H., & Park, S. U. (2013). Recent studies on flavonoids and their antioxidant activities. EXCLI journal, 12, 226–230.
  5. Ginwala, R., Bhavsar, R., Chigbu, D. I., Jain, P., & Khan, Z. K. (2019). Potential Role of Flavonoids in Treating Chronic Inflammatory Diseases with a Special Focus on the Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Apigenin. Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 8(2), 35. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox8020035