Bitter ribbon flower

The Bitter ribbon flower (Iberis amara) is a plant from the crucifer family (Brassicaceae). Originally native to Europe, it has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. There it is credited with digestion-promoting and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is valued above all for its bitter compounds, which could offer numerous health benefits.

What benefits does the Bitter ribbon flower provide?

The Bitter ribbon flower is credited in traditional medicine with various health benefits. These result from various active compounds, some of which could be associated in studies with different effects that support the applications in traditional medicine. Despite these studies, more research is necessary to prove the effects of the Bitter ribbon flower.

  • Digestion-promoting: Due to its high content of bitter compounds, the Bitter ribbon flower is used to support digestion. It is said to be able to stimulate the appetite and help with complaints such as bloating and a feeling of fullness. (1)
  • Liver health: The plant is traditionally used to promote liver function. The bitter compounds are said to support the detoxification of the liver and thus stimulate bile secretion.
  • Anti-inflammatory effect: Iberis amara is also used to relieve inflammatory conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties have also been verified in scientific studies. (2,3)

Bitter ribbon flower is one of the ingredients in Iberogast, a medication that many may be familiar with and that is used primarily for stomach and digestive complaints.

How does the Bitter ribbon flower work?

The health effects of the Bitter ribbon flower are based on its bitter compounds and other bioactive compounds:

  • Bitter compounds: These are mainly responsible for promoting digestion (1).
  • Glucosinolates and flavonoids: These compounds contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of various plants (4,5).

Side effects and risks

Although the Bitter ribbon flower possesses many positive properties, some possible side effects should be considered:

  • Stomach irritation: In sensitive individuals, the bitter compounds can lead to stomach irritation or nausea, especially at higher doses.
  • Allergic reactions: In rare cases, allergic reactions to the plant can occur. An allergy test before use is recommended.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Due to insufficient data on the safety of use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, women in these stages of life should refrain from taking it as a precaution.

Conclusion

The Bitter ribbon flower (Iberis amara) is a versatile medicinal plant with numerous traditional applications. When used properly, it can offer effective support for various health complaints. Nevertheless, caution is advised, especially in 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. Khayyal, M. T., Agha, A. M., Zaki, H. F., El-Sahar, A., & Abdel-Aziz, H. (2015). Mechanisms Involved in the Anti-inflammatory and Vascular Effects of Iberis amara Extract. Planta medica, 81(12-13), 1097–1102. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0035-1546244
  3. Khayyal, M., Agha, A., El-Sahar, A., Zaki, H., Weiser, D., & Abdel-Aziz, H. (2012). Iberis amara extract shows anti-inflammatory activity and endothelium protective effect. Planta Medica, 78(10), 1055–1060. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0032-1320467
  4. Choi, H., Kim, H., Han, S., Park, H. W., Ha, I. J., Kim, J. S., & Lee, S. G. (2023). Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of High-Glucosinolate-Synthesis Lines of Brassica rapa. Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 12(9), 1693. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12091693
  5. Al-Khayri, J. M., Sahana, G. R., Nagella, P., Joseph, B. V., Alessa, F. M., & Al-Mssallem, M. Q. (2022). Flavonoids as Potential Anti-Inflammatory Molecules: A Review. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 27(9), 2901. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27092901