Most bitters are actually beneficial for long term use. And plant estrogens (phytoestrogens) are also beneficial. They protect us from cancers, and can help prevent estrogen induced disorders like endometriosis.

Bitters work by stimulating the bitter receptors of the tongue, which in turn stimulates the vagus nerve. This leads to an increase of stomach acid, pancreatic enzymes, and bile, which is why they are also known as digestive bitters. Stimulating the vagus nerve this way also causes the liver to flush, which allows the liver to break down dangerous substances more effectively, such as excess estrogens. Any bitter tasting substance will work. I prefer Grape Bitters to Swedish Bitters because the Swedish Bitters contain stimulant laxatives, which are not good for use longer than 2 weeks. Grape Bitters do not contain these laxatives, and are considerably less expensive (around $6 for a 2 ounce bottle). All the commercial bitters I have seen do contain berberine herbs though, such as goldenseal, Oregon grape root and barberry. These can also cause problems if taken for more than a couple of weeks. Berberine can kill intestinal flora, damage the intestinal lining, and raises the blood pressure by depleting potassium. Therefore, I recommend only using 1/2 dropper full, rather the recommended instructions of a teaspoon that is on most of the bottles. Since it works by a nerve stimulation rather than a chemical reaction you do not need the higher amounts. The other option is to consume bitter foods like bitter melon, arugula lettuce, or dandelion greens (also good for hormones). Or you can make your own bitters with herbs like gentian or mugwort.

vedic medicine says to eat all the tastes every day. bitter is out of favor in western culture. no wonder they have so many liver problems. bitter is the flavor of gall. it is the flavor that helps the liver.

Thanks for reminding me. I tried eating the, but it was hard to eat more than a very few. I think I'd have to find a way to eat them by mixing them with something more palatable.

I've read something before, indicating you shouldn't eat very many of them at a time. I don't think that's a problem for most of us :)

Something else...

"The black seeds of papaya have been found beneficial in the treatment of cirrhosis of the liver, caused by alcoholism and malnutrition. A tablespoon of juice obtained by grinding the seeds, mixed with ten drops of fresh lime juice, should be given once or twice daily for about a month as a medicine for this disease."

Papaya seeds & other foods are indicated -


http://naturalmedications.com/cirrhosis/cirrhosis-of-the-liver.html