Tonic Herbalism: Part II: Digestive Bitters

Tonic Herbalism encompasses these key activities:

• Taking herbs on a daily basis to tone and strengthen the body’s systems.

• Using Adaptogenic herbs that are gentle, safe, and nourishing.

• Using mushrooms and other herbs that support a balanced immune response.

• Helps in taking an educated role in building a foundation of physical and emotional health.

• Helps maintain well-being, healthy energy levels, and emotional balance.

How herbs can be used on a daily basis:

Digestive Bitters have been used throughout history to stimulate the digestive system. The process steeps bitter-tasting roots, leaves, and berries in alcohol and the mixture is served before or after a meal. ​Bitter herbs include Angelica, Burdock, Dandelion, Gentian, and Motherwort. Benefits include:

• Improvement of protein digestion, mineral absorption, & breakdown of fats and fat-soluble vitamins.

• Reduction of gas, bloating, and food sensitivities.

• Promotion of regular bowel movements.

• Triggers the release of gastric juices and bile in those without a Gallbladder.

How to use bitters:

• Aperitifs: take before a meal to stimulate the appetite. Infuse herbs in gin or dry sherry.

• Digestive Bitters: take before a meal to aid digestion, or after a heavy meal to soothe the GI tract. Infuse herbs in rum or vodka.

Wild Child Bitters: $5 per 2-oz. bottle.

• Cranberry-Anise: made with Caramel Vodka, fresh cranberries, bitter herbs, and simple syrup.

• Spiced Dandelion: made with Wild Cherry Rum, orange peel, dandelion root, and cardamom pods.

• Woodland Bitters: an old German folk recipe passed down through the ages and modeled after the famous Krauter Hexen Bitters. Our Woodland Bitters are made with Spiced Rum, beet sugar, and over a dozen bitter herbs and roots.