The Better Aperitif: Bitters Tonic

<p>Here is a recipe for a homemade bitters tonic made of dried herbs. The cardamom and ginger are added to make it more palatable. Bitters are most effective when taken over a period of weeks or months, as their effect builds up over time. Take no more than 1 ­teaspoon of the tonic 15 to 30 minutes before meals.</p>
<p>• 4 parts gentian root<br />
• 4 parts blessed thistle<br />
• 2 parts dried orange or lemon peel<br />
• 1 part gingerroot<br />
• 1 part cardamom seeds<br />
• Vodka, whiskey, brandy, or wine</p>
<p>1. Pulverize the herbs in a blender or food processor. Place the powder in a jar, add enough vodka, whiskey, brandy, or wine to cover it to twice its depth, then cover it tightly.</p>
<p>2. Steep for 2 weeks, shaking the jar every day. Pour through a strainer lined with a coffee filter, pressing the liquid from the solids. Transfer to dark bottles, cover tightly, and store in a dark place at room temperature.</p>
<p>
<strong>Note:</strong> If you would rather make a bitters tea and avoid the alcohol, simmer 1 1/2 teaspoons of the powdered herbs in 1 cup of water for 30 minutes. Strain. Take 2 teaspoons of the tea at room temperature 15 to 30 minutes before a meal. Keep the remainder in the refrigerator for as long as 3 days.</p>
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Click here for the main article, <a href=”https://www.motherearthliving.com/health-and-wellness/bitters.aspx”>
<strong>The Better Apertif: Make Bitters</strong>
</a>.