Bitters, Not Just for Cocktails - Episode 004

Bitters are excellent for digestion. They began as a medicine and then became popularly used in spirits, beginning the modern-day cocktail. If you want to make these to have them for this holiday season, get them started as soon as possible. They make great gifts as well.

This episode's tea is a tea from the blog Loose Leaf Soul. This tea is ideal for grounding and intuition. It is best prepared the night before and enjoyed under the full moon.

1 T dried Chamomile flowers - Grounding, 

1 T dried Rose petals  - used in divination practices and opens the heart chakra, which is an essential part of listening to your intuition.

½ T dried Hibiscus and  - can heighten your dream states and other intuitive energies

Zest of a ¼ lemon - can help clear out stagnant energy and get the chi flowing.

Place all ingredients in a quart-size mason jar, filling with water and setting it outside or in a windowsill overnight one to two nights before the full moon peaks so it can absorb all the energy of the full moon and be enjoyed during the fullest part of the moon. 

It can also be enjoyed hot. Mix ingredients and steep in a quart of near-boiling water, covered for 8-10 minutes. Strain and enjoy.

Apple Cider Vinegar Bitters, by Lynn

2 Tablespoons roasted dandelion root (Taraxacum off.) - anioxidant, liver tonifier, anti-inflammatory (Contraindicated in acute inflammation or blockage of the gallbladder and intestines due to its stimulating effect on these organs.)

1 Tablespoon burdock root (Arctium lappa) - detoxifies the blood (Very rarely can cause contact dermatitis.)

One teaspoon of each of the following herbs:

Orange peel (Citrus sinensis) - flavinoids, antifungal, anti-inflammatory (Contraindicated with fluid loss and excessive thirst.)

Wild cherry bark (Prunus serotina) - boosts immunity (High dose may cause spasms and difficulty breathing.)

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) - antibacterial, antifungal, digestive aid (Use with caution if allergic to ragweed. Overuse can cause gastric distress.)

Fennel (F. vulgare var. dulce) - anti-inflammatory, digestive aid,    hypocholesterolemic, antispasmodic, anxiolytic (Can cause photodermatitis, avoiding excessive sunlight. It can be allergenic. It might increase the effect of anticoagulant herbs. Avoid if using ciprofloxacin or other antibiotics in that family. Cronic hormone-sensitive conditions or those taking tamoxifen and contraceptives should avoid.)

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) - reduces flatulence (Can cause allergic          reactions.)

Chamomile, Roman (Matricaria recutita) - anti-inflammatory, digestive aid, clams mind, and body.

Place all ingredients in a pint mason jar. Fill the jar with apple raw apple cider vinegar and add lid and shake. Use a plastic cover or line the top with parchment paper before using a metal lid. The ACV can cause corrosion on the metal. Shake daily for at least a week. Strain using muslin and store in a dark glass bottle. Take one dropper full (1mL) before meals.

Contraindications: Do not take during pregnancy. Some of these herbs may have contraindications with prescription medicine. See additional herb contraindications above. Consult your physician before taking.

Simple bitters

        2 ounces Dandelion root

        2 T Orange peel

        13 ounces 80 or 100 proof vodka

Place all ingredients in a pint jar. Shake daily for at least a week. Strain through muslin and store in a clean, sanitized dark amber jar. Use one dropper full (1mL) before meals.