When to take herbs -- on an empty stomach or with food?

[Guest guest]

I had written about this previously, but didn't hear any responses, so I'm

re-posting. I'm wondering how the herbs are most effective -- on an empty

stomach or with food. I had always understood that tinctures should be on an

empty stomach, but that capsules/tablets were better with food. If anyone

knows, that would be incredibly helpful.

Thanks!

Robyn

[Guest guest]

>

according to Buhner you have to take catsclaw 20-30 minutes before a meal,

otherwise you have have insufficient stomach acid to digest / activate the

components.

Most of the other herbs are better taken with some food - this will help with

absorption and usually protect from gut problems.

Catsclaw is kind of saw dust, it won't dissolve in normal water, and the

alkaloids will only dissolve with sufficient acid (if you use the catsclaw vine

bark, you have to cook it for half an hour or so in boiling water to extract the

alkaloids etc.).