What are Bitters?
Bitters are herbaltinctures that originated inthe apothecaries of old-world Europe. Theyare specific barks, roots, and herbs that have been infused in alcohol,and then used in dashes or drops to enhance flavor in drinks and food as well asfor theirhealth benefits.
Bitterness is one of the most intriguing flavorswith astimulatingquality that some people might describe as nastyor harsh. The complex bitter flavors, however, do far more for our body and vitality than one might imagine. Before humans had the enzymes to break down certain plants, the bitter flavors of leaves and roots were Nature's signal to avoid the rest of a poisonous plant. Digestion was triggered in order to move the harmful plant through our bodies as quickly as possible. Hence, when consumed, bitter herbsnaturally stimulate the production of saliva, gastric juices and bile to prime digestion and cleanse major organs and systems.
From the bitter herbal remedies used by the Ancient Egyptians to 16th centuryprescriptions of famous physician Paracelsus and beyond, bitter flavored foods have long beenvalued for a unique ability to cleanse the body and build vitality.Studies have confirmed that getting an adequate amount bitter flavor isimportant for digestive balance and linked with many related health benefits. Unfortunately, these rich flavored bitter plantshave been lost to sweetened and salted snacks that make up the majority of our diet today.
What are Shrubs?
Shrubs are classic colonial style co*cktail mixers composed of apple cider vinegar infused with fruit, herbs and honey. Coming off the hundreds of apple orchards in North America, apple cider vinegar became a drink that when mixed with herbs for their medicinal purposes became one of the uniquely American mixers. Traditionally, honey is added to the mixture to add a slight sweet before being added to water or spirits.
