Bitters are an herbal preparation that many modern folks are introduced to through cocktail recipes. Historically however, the bitter taste profile, widely ignored in modern times, was used to support a healthy balanced diet. While this pungency has dropped away from our daily meals, bitter tinctures or teas taken before meals can help us gain the benefits of the bitter flavor without having to incorporated them directly into our foods.
Bitters work through direct contact with the bitter receptors on our tongue. They signal our body to begin the digestive process, which increases the efficiency of our GI tract. This can help us absorb nutrients better, which can improve our overall wellbeing.*
While we do have bitters available at the shop, you can make your own at home!
ALSO! Bitters are a traditional and lovely ingredient in those craft cocktail recipes you’ve been looking at.
Bitter herbs to use:
- Dandelion leaf and root
- Bitter orange peel
- Lemon peel
- Burdock root
- Gentian root
- Cinnamon Chips
- Ginger root
- Hyssop leaf
DIRECTIONS
- Fill a 16oz mason jar halfway with a mix of some or all of the herbs above.
- Cover the herbs and fill the jar with raw apple cider vinegar or brandy.
- Screw the lid on and let your mason jar sit in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking occasionally.
- Strain and add honey to taste (approximately 2 tbsp – optional).
- Take a few drops to a dropperful on your tongue or in a small amount of water daily before meals.
Read more about Bitters from the Mountain Rose Herbs blog! Or check out Meadowsweetie Therese’s article about Bitters on the Changing Times Website.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not meant to prevent, treat, or cure any disease. This post is meant for educational purposes only.
