Bertram

Bertram is a spice plant that has been used by humans for thousands of years. However, in connection with Bertram, Saint Hildegard of Bingen must be mentioned, as she largely discovered the potential of the plant. She documented her findings in her work “Physica - The Healing Power of Nature,” of which only copies still exist.

Externally, Bertram resembles chamomile as a member of the daisy family. It is native mainly to the Mediterranean, Morocco, and the Caucasus. That does not mean that Bertram does not occur in Germany—if you explore rock gardens, you might see the white-purple flowers shining there. However, as a spice, we use the roots of the plant.

As an herbaceous plant, it grows up to five centimeters tall. The flowers are usually visible from May to August. Other names for this spice are Beertrain, Bertrankraut, or Motherwort. In its native areas, it especially thrives in meadows or forest clearings.

The name “Bertram” derives from the Greek “pyr,” meaning fire. This is a reference to its spiciness: dried and ground, the powder initially tastes quite neutral but then slightly burns on the tongue.

Bertram is mainly consumed for its sugar compounds and essential oils. These contain numerous secondary plant substances that further benefit your health. Typical tannins include inulin, pellitorin, and anacyclin. Trace elements and minerals are also present in small amounts, as expected.

Bertram can help with numerous symptoms. For example, inulin can have an immunizing effect, possibly helping to fight diseases and more. Additionally, Bertram is attributed the following properties:

• mucolytic (helps dissolve mucus)
• anti-inflammatory
• antioxidant
• antiviral
• antifungal
• antiseptic

Bertram could therefore be taken as a supplement for many annoying disease symptoms. It is especially used for gastrointestinal problems and to regulate the gut flora.

Bertram belongs to the genus of marigolds and thus to the family of daisy family. As mentioned, it grows up to 5 centimeters tall. The flowers appear greenish and rosette-like in summer, surrounded by pinnate leaves. In Germany, you need some luck to find Bertram. Its occurrences extend from the Mediterranean region up to the Austrian highlands.