What exactly is Bertram?
Bertram – botanically known as Anacyclus pyrethrum – is a plant from the Mediterranean region that was almost forgotten in our part of the world for a long time. It belongs to the daisy family and is related to chamomile and arnica.
The root of the plant contains valuable compounds like essential oils and flavonoids, which give it its earthy taste – making it well tolerated even by sensitive folks.
In herbalism, it's usually the dried, finely ground powder that's used. Today, Bertram is quietly making a comeback, especially in what's known as Hildegard nutrition.
Bertram’s role in Hildegard’s teachings
In her writings, Hildegard of Bingen praised Bertram to the skies. For her, it was one of the most important spices of all. In her own words: “Bertram warms the brain and the heart, cleanses the stomach, and gets the bad blood out of a person.”
These statements might sound unusual to us today, but they fit well into the worldview of that time. Hildegard often talked about “mucus” and “juices” in the body, whose balance determined well-being. In this context, Bertram’s job was to balance out “sluggishness” and “cold states” – both literally and as described in Hildegard’s teachings.
From today’s perspective: Bertram is a fascinating spice with a long tradition, to which Hildegard gave special importance in her teachings.
What makes Bertram so special?
Modern studies on Bertram are still rare, but traditional knowledge about it is extensive. Some qualities attributed to Bertram:
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Rich in compounds: The root contains bitters and flavonoids as well as essential oils, which give it its unique taste.
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Warming character: Like ginger, Bertram has a warming note, which makes it especially popular in the colder months.
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Versatile use: In Hildegard’s teachings, Bertram was described as one of the most versatile spices.
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Long tradition: In traditional herbalism, Bertram is one of the most frequently mentioned plants.
Important: Bertram is not a substitute for medical therapies – but it’s an interesting companion as part of a mindful diet inspired by Hildegard’s teachings.
How to use it: Bertram in everyday life
If you dive into Hildegard’s nutrition, you’ll quickly find the tradition of using Bertram daily in small amounts. Her teachings basically say: “Anyone who eats Bertram every day will be spared from many illnesses.”
Traditionally, Bertram is finely ground and sprinkled as a spice over dishes – for example:
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on vegetable dishes, soups, or stews
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on buttered bread or with cream cheese
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stirred into warm drinks like grain coffee
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combined with other Hildegard spices like galangal or quendel
You can also find Bertram tablets or tabs based on Hildegard’s recipes nowadays – but what matters most is using it daily and in moderation. It’s not about large amounts, but about consciously working it into your daily routine.
A look at the past – and the future?
It’s remarkable that Hildegard of Bingen gave Bertram such a central role – especially since it hardly plays a part in Western cooking anymore. But as we start to focus more on mindful eating and traditional herbalism again, interest in these “forgotten” herbs and spices is growing.
Bertram stands for a return to simplicity, naturalness, and a close connection between food and mindfulness. And maybe that’s its real value: not as a superfood or trendy product, but as a quiet companion for a mindful lifestyle.
Conclusion: Bertram – a spicy companion with a long tradition
In Hildegard of Bingen’s world, every spice had its meaning, and hardly any was mentioned as often as Bertram. Its warming note, versatility in the kitchen, and centuries-old tradition make it a little treasure for anyone interested in Hildegard’s teachings.
Bertram reminds us that it’s not always the flashy remedies that fascinate – often it’s the quiet, subtle ones. If you’re curious about traditional herbs and Hildegard’s holistic approach to life, you might just discover a new favorite spice in Bertram – not as a miracle cure, but as a sign of mindfulness and inner balance. Check out our range inspired by Hildegard’s teachings.
