Hildegard’s Original Bitters Tablets are built on a formula that has been refined over nine centuries. The herbs were identified by Hildegard von Bingen in the 12th century, documented in her botanical masterwork Physica, and validated by modern phytochemistry. Every ingredient earns its place. Learn about Hildegard’s life and legacy.
Gentian Root (Gentiana lutea)
The anchor of the formula. Gentian root contains amarogentin, one of the most intensely bitter compounds found in nature. It stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes and bile, priming the gut before a meal. Hildegard praised gentian as a herb of significant warmth and strength. Explore the full profile at Healthy Hildegard’s guide to gentian root bitters.
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
Hildegard praised wormwood in Physica for its ability to warm and settle the stomach. Its active compounds stimulate gastric secretions and have been used in European digestive traditions for over a millennium.
Fennel Seed (Foeniculum vulgare)
Fennel provides the aromatic counterbalance to the formula’s more intense bitter notes. Rich in anethole, it supports smooth muscle relaxation in the digestive tract and has been used to ease bloating and gas since antiquity.
Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger’s gingerols and shogaols support gastric motility — the movement of food through the digestive system. It is warming, stimulating, and has been used across both European and Asian botanical traditions for thousands of years.
Galangal Root (Alpinia officinarum)
One of Hildegard’s most frequently cited herbs. Galangal is closely related to ginger but has a sharper, more peppery profile. Hildegard wrote about it extensively in Physica. For additional context on herbal digestive bitters, visit Healthy Hildegard.
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.*