The deeper I go in my herbalism studies, I continually find myself *extra* passionate when it comes to the digestive system.
Maybe it’s because I’ve personally felt the effects of how a life unbalanced can wreak havoc on it. Or because 70% of our immune cells reside in the gut, and I think that’s kinda cool to understand. Perhaps, it’s because the most obvious, yet overlooked place is where most disease takes root.
Our standard diets, stress-induced cortisol spikes, and lack of specific foods such as fermented and bitter, make it way too common to have most folks out of digestive harmony.
The thing is, with proper support and understanding, it can be quite simple to get back into a place of homeostasis.
One of my personal favorites and very tried ways of helping the entire digestive system is with digestive bitters. “Very tried” as in digestive bitter blends were mentioned by Dioscorides in the De Materia Medica written just shy of 2,ooo years ago! That means that humans have been finding help in bitter plants since 50 BC. The question is – why did we ever stop…or did we?
From appetite stimulation, to enzyme production, settling bloat, nutrient absorption, regulating bowel movements, to supporting the liver—bitters do it all. 👏
The great news is that they’re very easy to make!
I’ve crafted a blend using herbs which are all relatively easy to source. The formula is a perfect balance for overall digestion support, with some of the following highlights:
❤︎ Stimulates digestive enzymes and liver bile production
❤︎ Supports liver function
❤︎ Encourages a healthy appetite
❤︎ Eases bloating, flatulence, indigestion, acid reflux and heartburn.
❤︎ Supports bowel movement regulation
Here’s your simple, yet powerfully beneficial digestive bitters formula:
Ingredients:
❤︎ Dandelion Root — 2 TBLS fresh or dried
❤︎ Burdock Root — 2 TBLS fresh or dried
❤︎ Orange Peel — 2 TBLS fresh or dried
❤︎ Gentian Root — 2 TBLS dried
❤︎ Calendula — 2 TBLS dried or fresh flower
❤︎ Fennel Seed — 1 TBLS freshly crushed
❤︎ Ginger Root — 1 TBLS freshly chopped or dried
❤︎ Cardamom — 1 TSP full pods or powder
❤︎ Clove — 1 TSP 5-6 full cloves
❤︎ Black Pepper Corn — 1 TSP sub in ground if needed
❤︎ Pure Vanilla Extract — 1 TSP
12 oz of 80-100% proof alcohol OR Apple Cider Vinegar (raw & unfiltered)
Note: I personally don’t prefer using alcohol in my tinctures, unless it’s absolutely necessary. Vinegar won’t extract as many of the constituents from the herbs as would alcohol, but when you’re using a plentiful array of herbs such as in this recipe, vinegar will extract plenty enough to make some wonderful bitters.
Supplies:
❤︎ Cutting Board if using fresh herbs
❤︎ 16 oz Mason Jar with lid
❤︎ Waxed Parchment Paper
❤︎ Knife for chopping or Spice Grinder
❤︎ Glass Amber dropper bottle
Directions:
— If using fresh herbs, chop or grind them immediately before using.
— Measure out each herb individually, lending a moment to connect with each plant. Notice the scent, the feel, the shape and quality. Become familiar with each herb on its own, and lean in to see if you’re able to pick up on their subtle energies.
— In your mason jar, combine all of your herbs, vanilla extract and alcohol or vinegar. Make sure herb material is covered by your menstruum, before closing jar. Secure a small piece of waxed parchment paper between the top of the jar and the lid. Once secure, shake the jar for about 30 seconds until all of the herbs are combined. This is a good time to set your intention for what you’d like the bitters to do for you.
— Label your jar, and set it in a dark cool place. Come back to it every 2-3 days and shake it up some more. Let sit for 4 weeks.
— After 4 weeks, strain the herbs out (send them to compost), and bottle up your digestive bitters.
— Take 1/2 teaspoon 15 minutes before each meal, or 30 minutes after a meal.
Please let me know if you decide to make these and how you enjoy them. Also, If you have any specific digestive issues which stretch beyond the symptoms mentioned above, please feel free to reach out and I can suggest (at no cost) specific herbs to include in a formula more specific to you.
In the meantime, my friends, be well. Lean into love, connection, and things which feed your inner peace.
PS. I’m currently running a Valentine’s Day sale in my apothecary ~ 20% off all herbals goodies until Sunday! Everything is crafted with love, intentions, and the finest botanicals in all the lands.
Yours truly and always,
Katie xox