Our digestive system and how it feels can dictate our mood and energy levels. The connection and communication between our gut and the brain is a well established concept which has been shown to affect both our cognition and emotions.
Maintaining good gut health is something that we can all strive to do with pre, pro and post-biotics, that support the microbiome of bacteria that thrive inside of us and aid our digestion. However, it can be easy to tip the scale towards an unhealthy balance of bacteria that are not helpful. Diet is the main contributing factor to our overall gut health, but stress, intense exercise and being in a new climate or surroundings will affect the balance of bacteria too.
When we feel uncomfortable, perhaps having indulged too much, rushed through a meal, ate something that did not sit well, then there are herbs which have been known to aid digestion and have been used for centuries. Our Belly Blessing tincture is a blend of these soothing bitters that help to promote a healthy digestion and restoring the healthy balance in your gut microbiome.
All herbs are sourced from a British organic and biodynamic farm who grow these herbs in tune with the moon. This native botanical tincture has helping herbs for soul and soil.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Thyme is an unsung hero of the herbs that we grew up with. Often seen solely as the sharp, fragrant addition to Mediterranean cuisine, this plant is actually a very powerful anti-inflammatory, carminative (relieves flatulence), antioxidant and antiseptic, which is one of the earliest known examples of medicinal herbs. It has the ability to stimulate the liver and promote digestion whilst promoting the balance of healthy bacteria.
Burdock (Arctium lappa)
The leaves and root of burdock are used to obtain the therapeutic effects that it has been used for since medieval days. Recent studies have confirmed that burdock has hepato-protective (liver) properties, gastro-protective properties and is an expectorant too - decreasing mucus production. This combination is what has held it in high regard to aid digestion, as it works to protect our digestive system when it is under stress.
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Because dandelion is commonly used for its flowers and the leaves in salads, many of the plant's medicinal properties, which are found in the roots and leaves, are often overlooked. It is a known cholagogue and cholerectic - something that stimulates the production of bile from the liver and digestive tract.
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
Fennel is a plant with a diverse range of medical and culinary properties, but its effects to aid digestion are what it is most renowned for. The sweet seeds of the vulgare sub-species are used widely in savoury and sweet dishes. Therapeutically, they are used for their carminative effects, to aid digestion of fatty foods and to alleviate bloated, gassy bellies.
Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus)
The globe artichoke is a wonder in both culinary and medicinal uses. It protects the liver and inhibits the production of cholesterol, supporting a healthy digestion and sequestering fats that at in part responsible for hypertension and atherosclerosis.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Peppermint has many calming and anti-spasmodic effects that help to relax the smooth muscles in our digestive system. In releasing this tension it allows trapped gas to escape and relieve discomfort. It also is a natural antibacterial and antifungal, but more significantly for digestion, it has shown to alleviate abdominal pain among those suffering with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and improve their quality of life.
Cerato flower essence (Ceratostigma willmottiana)
Trusting your gut instincts is often used to define the knowledge that you hold within you - they are your interpretations of the energies flowing between a social interaction or your inner comfort with life and business decisions. Cerato flower essence is for exactly this too, trusting your inner-knowing, believing in yourself and your actions. This flower is for feeling no regrets and not seeking out approval, only the certainty of your actions and your ability to hold them.